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Whole wheat pasta is the heart of this salad, providing a satisfying texture while being significantly more nutritious than its refined counterparts. Rich in dietary fiber, whole wheat pasta aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to manage their weight. It is also packed with essential nutrients, including B vitamins, iron, and magnesium, which are often stripped away during the processing of white pasta.

Healthy Chicken & Avocado Pasta Salad

Discover a vibrant and nutritious meal with the Creamy Green Goodness: Healthy Chicken & Avocado Pasta Salad. This colorful dish combines whole wheat pasta, lean chicken, and creamy avocado, making it the perfect option for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, it's both satisfying and good for you. This versatile salad is ideal for meal prep, gatherings, or picnics, ensuring you'll impress with its delicious flavors and health benefits.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups whole wheat pasta (penne or rotini)

1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast (grilled or roasted)

1 ripe avocado, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove minced garlic

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool. Set aside.

    Prepare Chicken: If you haven’t already, cook and shred the chicken breast using a fork or your hands. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or grill your own.

      Mix Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, garlic (if using), salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and chopped herbs.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss until everything is well coated. Be careful not to mash the avocado.

            Chill and Serve: For best results, cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

              Garnish: Just before serving, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a few extra diced avocados on top for a fresh touch.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings