Pasta Cobb Salad
A vibrant pasta salad combining tender shells, crispy bacon, juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, peas, and tangy blue cheese, perfect for casual gatherings or picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool quickly; drain again.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, chopped cooked chicken, chopped tomatoes, thawed peas, sliced green onions, crumbled blue cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Pour the Italian salad dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding some mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing. You can substitute the blue cheese with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor. If you want to add more veggies, try incorporating diced bell peppers or cucumbers. For a lighter version, use whole grain pasta or a low-calorie dressing. This Pasta Cobb Salad is versatile and can be adapted to fit your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Pasta Cobb Salad as a refreshing main dish or a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For an added crunch, consider serving it alongside some crusty bread or a light soup, like Quick Vichyssoise (Potato Soup). This dish is perfect for potlucks and picnics, as it holds up well and can be made ahead of time.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, you can add a splash of additional dressing before serving. To enjoy it cold, simply take it out of the fridge and let it sit for a few minutes to reach a more palatable temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Cobb Salad contains roughly 478 calories, with 20g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (102% of the Daily Value), iron (78% of the Daily Value), and potassium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1627mg per serving (71% 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 use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! While medium pasta shells are great for holding the dressing, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just ensure that whatever pasta you choose is cooked al dente for the best texture in the salad.
How can I make this salad vegetarian?
To make this Pasta Cobb Salad vegetarian, omit the bacon and chicken. You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based protein for added texture and protein. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables such as avocado or roasted corn to enhance the flavor.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salad in advance! Just follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator without the dressing for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, add the dressing and toss gently. This allows the pasta and vegetables to stay crisp and fresh.
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).