Ingredients
– 2 cups fusilli pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
– 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup pepperoni, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– ½ cup black olives, sliced
– ½ cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
– ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
– ½ cup Italian salad dressing
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Creating Chicken Pepperoni Pasta Salad is straightforward. Just follow these simple steps for a delicious outcome:
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and add the fusilli pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, chop the cooked chicken, slice the pepperoni and cherry tomatoes, dice the bell pepper, and slice the black olives.
3. Mix the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, pepperoni, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, black olives, and red onion.
4. Combine the Pasta: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the other ingredients. Toss to combine evenly.
5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Italian dressing and olive oil over the pasta mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste, then gently toss again.
6. Chill (Optional): For optimal flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Add Cheese: Before serving, fold in the mozzarella cheese gently.
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added color and flavor.
By following these steps, your Chicken Pepperoni Pasta Salad will be ready to impress!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 22g