Hampton Herbs Pasta Salad
A vibrant pasta salad combining fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and creamy dressing with dill and cheese, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix Miracle Whip and dill weed together to create the dressing.
- In a large bowl, layer or toss torn lettuce, diced cooked chicken, cooked spiral pasta, peeled and diced cucumber, diced red onion, thawed peas, and shredded cheese, saving some cheese for topping.
- Combine the dressing with the salad ingredients and toss to coat evenly.
- Top with reserved shredded cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of Miracle Whip or mayonnaise. You can also substitute the chicken with canned chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the flavor profile. If you prefer a crunchier texture, add in some toasted nuts or seeds. This dish is versatile and can easily incorporate seasonal vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad is perfect for potlucks or summer barbecues and pairs beautifully with Zesty Barbecued Chicken or Country Mustard Chicken. Consider serving it alongside a light vinaigrette-dressed green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. For a refreshing drink, a glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, or enjoy it cold as a refreshing salad. Be mindful that the pasta may absorb some dressing over time, so you might want to add a little more before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hampton Herbs Pasta Salad contains roughly 201 calories, with 7g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 782mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this pasta salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the ingredients from getting soggy. Combine everything just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to customize your pasta salad with other vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even avocado for added creaminess. You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables to keep it fresh and exciting.
Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. Just cook it according to the package instructions and let it cool before mixing with the other ingredients for a delicious gluten-free pasta salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).