Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Rotini Pasta: This spiral shape is great for holding onto the sauce, but you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or bowties. It’s all about what you have on hand!

Chicken: I like to use leftover rotisserie chicken for this salad; it’s super convenient! If you want a lighter option, grilled or baked chicken breast works well too. You can even substitute with canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.

Cottage Cheese: This gives the salad its creaminess. If you prefer a different flavor, try Greek yogurt or sour cream for a similar texture. Non-dairy options like cashew cream can work for a vegan alternative.

Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers add freshness. You can replace tomatoes with bell peppers or skip them altogether. Swap cucumbers for zucchini or even add in some crunchy carrots for extra texture!

How Do I Make Sure the Pasta Stays Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking the pasta just right is key! Here’s how to avoid mushy pasta:

• Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. It should be firm to the bite.
• Once cooked, drain it and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps it from getting too soft.
• Let it cool completely before mixing it with other ingredients to avoid wilting veggies.

Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Base Ingredients:

• 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow)
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

Dressing Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or crushed black pepper for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This lovely Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad will take about 20 minutes of prep time to cook the pasta and mix everything together. Don’t forget to chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, so the flavors can combine beautifully. All in all, you’ll be enjoying this dish in about an hour!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Place it aside to cool.

2. Combine the Main Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and finely chopped red onion. This combination brings a vibrant crunch!

3. Prepare the Dressing:

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth dressing. This dressing adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the ingredients.

4. Mix it All Together:

Pour the cottage cheese dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together, making sure that all ingredients are coated nicely.

5. Add the Fresh Herbs:

Sprinkle in the chopped fresh basil and give it another gentle toss. The basil will add an aromatic freshness to your salad!

6. Season to Taste:

Take a moment to sample and adjust the seasoning. If you like a bit more zing, add some extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice until it’s just right for you.

7. Chill Before Serving:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together and enhance the taste.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

When you’re ready to serve, dish out your pasta salad into bowls, and if you’d like, garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or black pepper for a little kick. Enjoy your refreshing and creamy Cottage Cheese Chicken Pasta Salad!

Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta for This Salad?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber and nutrition. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it can vary slightly from regular pasta. Aim for al dente for the best texture.

Can I Make This Salad Vegan?

Yes! To make a vegan version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for protein. You can also substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream to keep it creamy.

How Long Will Leftovers Last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may thicken or settle.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, carrots, or even corn would work well in this salad. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating!