Tomato Basil Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad featuring tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, basil, and melted cheese, perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chicken in white wine until cooked through.
- Cut the cooked chicken into small pieces and set aside.
- Cut tomatoes into small pieces and set aside.
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, cheese, and chicken.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and canola oil to the bowl.
- Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and chopped basil.
- Chill for approximately 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using grilled shrimp instead of chicken or omit the protein altogether for a vegetarian treat. If you have fresh mozzarella, use it for a creamier texture. Adding a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors. Make sure to let the salad chill to enhance the taste. This dish is versatile; feel free to add bell peppers or olives for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a main dish or as a side with grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Italian Drumstix or a simple green salad. For an added touch, consider topping with fresh arugula or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese right before serving. This dish is perfect for picnics or potlucks.
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 olive oil to keep the pasta moist. If you prefer it cold, enjoy it straight from the fridge as a refreshing meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Basil Pasta Salad contains roughly 450 calories, with 22g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (136% of the Daily Value), iron (86% of the Daily Value), and calcium (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 714mg per serving (31% 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 follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop further, making it even more delicious. Just remember to toss it again before serving to mix in any settled ingredients.
What can I substitute for ziti?
If you don't have ziti on hand, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. The key is to choose a pasta that holds the dressing well. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can also work, depending on your dietary needs.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Tomato Basil Pasta Salad is great for meal prep. Pack it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners. Just be sure to store the dressing separately if you prefer a fresher taste when serving throughout the week.
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).