Name: Asian Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 16 oz tri-color rotini; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup sesame seeds; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 1/3 cup rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 3 TB sugar; 1/4 tsp pepper; 3 cups chicken breast cooked and cubed; 2 cups baby spinach; 1 cup shredded carrot; 1 red bell pepper julienned

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There’s something incredibly refreshing about a bowl of Asian Pasta Salad. I remember the first time I tried it at a friend’s summer barbecue. The vibrant colors, the tantalizing aromas, and that irresistible crunch from the fresh veggies made me fall in love instantly. The combination of textures and flavors was unlike anything I had experienced before. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a sun-drenched patio, a cool drink in hand, and laughter filling the air. This dish quickly became my go-to for gatherings and potlucks. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a breeze to whip up. Whether you’re preparing for a casual lunch or a festive dinner, this Asian Pasta Salad is always a hit. It’s the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet, making it a delightful addition to any table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
22 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Whisk

Why This Asian Pasta Salad Stands Out

It’s Versatile

One of the things I absolutely love about this Asian Pasta Salad is its versatility. You can serve it as a side dish, or make it the star of the meal by adding your favorite protein. I often toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra boost. The flavors meld beautifully, and it tastes just as good whether served warm or cold.

Fresh Ingredients Shine

In this recipe, fresh ingredients take center stage. The combination of colorful bell peppers, vibrant spinach, and crunchy carrots not only makes the salad visually stunning but also adds a delightful crunch. Each bite is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re like me and love to meal prep for the week ahead, this Asian Pasta Salad is a game-changer. It keeps well in the fridge, and the flavors only improve as it sits. Just make sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, so the pasta doesn’t get soggy.

Quick and Easy

Who doesn’t love a quick recipe? This salad is a breeze to make, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and no complicated steps, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time. It’s my secret weapon for those days when I need a satisfying meal but don’t have much time to spare.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or just enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this Asian Pasta Salad fits the bill perfectly. It’s adaptable to any season and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. I often make it for holiday gatherings, and it always receives rave reviews!

FAQ

Absolutely! One of the best things about Asian Pasta Salad is that it can be made ahead of time. Just prepare the salad, store it in an airtight container, and keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the pasta stays perfectly al dente and the veggies remain crisp. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep!

There are endless possibilities when it comes to variations for Asian Pasta Salad. You can add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier dish. Feel free to throw in different vegetables such as cucumbers, snap peas, or even edamame for added crunch. Additionally, you can experiment with the dressing by adding a touch of honey for sweetness or lime juice for a citrusy kick.

To make your Asian Pasta Salad vegetarian or vegan, simply omit any animal products like chicken. You can replace them with roasted chickpeas or tofu to maintain that satisfying protein level. The dressing is already vegetarian, but double-check to ensure the soy sauce is vegan-friendly. This makes it a great option for various diets!

This Asian Pasta Salad is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It makes an excellent side for grilled meats, fish, or even a lovely vegetarian stir-fry. You can also serve it as a light main dish on a hot summer day. Pair it with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade, and you’ve got a delightful meal!

Conclusion

In summary, this Asian Pasta Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh ingredients and delightful dressing, it’s sure to impress at your next gathering. So why not give it a try? I promise you’ll love the way it brings a burst of flavor to your table!

Asian Pasta Salad

The ultimate combination of fresh flavors and satisfying textures, this Asian Pasta Salad is perfect for any occasion. Packed with colorful veggies, protein, and a delicious sesame dressing, it's an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish. Make it tonight and enjoy a refreshing meal!

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Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Course Salads

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

Skillet
Mixing Bowl
Whisk

Ingredients

16 oz tri-color rotini
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
3 TB sugar
1/4 tsp pepper
3 cups chicken breast cooked and cubed
2 cups baby spinach
1 cup shredded carrot
1 red bell pepper julienned

Instructions

Make pasta as directed and set aside.
Cook sesame seeds in a skillet on medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly toasted. Set aside.

Mix together vegetable oil, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, sesame seeds, and pepper with a whisk until mixed well.
Pour dressing mixture over pasta, chicken breasts, red pepper, shredded carrots, and spinach and mix until coated evenly. ENJOY!