California Chicken Cafe Pasta Salad Recipe
California Chicken Cafe is well-known for its delicious and healthy dishes, and one of the favorites among their patrons is the California Chicken Cafe Pasta Salad. This delightful salad is a perfect blend of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and a tangy dressing that will surely leave your taste buds craving for more.
The secret to making this exquisite salad lies in the quality and freshness of the ingredients. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to recreate this tantalizing California Chicken Cafe Pasta Salad in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups cooked pasta shells
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, pasta shells, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, parsley, and basil.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
This California Chicken Cafe Pasta Salad is a refreshing and filling dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. The combination of the tender chicken, al dente pasta, and flavorful Mediterranean ingredients creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The zesty dressing adds a tangy kick that brings all the ingredients together. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a potluck, or simply want a light and healthy meal for lunch or dinner, this Pasta Salad is the perfect choice. You can also customize it to your liking by adding or substituting ingredients such as roasted bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or grilled zucchini. So, take a culinary trip to California with this delightful Pasta Salad and experience the flavors of the famous California Chicken Cafe right in your own home.
Nutrition information:
– Calories: 320
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 26g
– Protein: 20g
– Fiber: 5g
In conclusion, the California Chicken Cafe Pasta Salad is a true crowd pleaser that combines the freshness of vegetables, the deliciousness of tender chicken, and the flavors of the Mediterranean. Its ease of preparation and customizable nature make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm summer day, as a side dish at a BBQ, or as a light lunch, this Pasta Salad will never disappoint. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and transport yourself to the sunny shores of California with every bite of this mouthwatering salad.