Thursday, July 7, 2011

Bistro Pasta Salad


My kids absolutely love this salad. And the best part is, you can go as simple or as crazy as you want with this. It can be a perfect side dish, or add a little chicken and you have dinner.

I'm going to give you the full recipe, but remember that there are only four absolutely necessary ingredients - the pasta, the cheese, the dressing and the basil. The other stuff is just extra goodness that can enhance the flavors.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked pasta (penne, or spirals, or bowtie)
1 cup halved grape tomatoes
2 to 4 oz. crumbled feta cheese
1/3 cup lightly packed fresh basil, cut into strips (julienned)
1/4 cup chopped red onions
1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1/2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, grilled, cut into 1/4 inch thick slices
1/2 cup italian dressing (I like the Good Seasons Italian Dressing or the Good Seasons Garlic & Herb)

If you use the Good Seasons dressing, make it according to package instructions.

Combine all ingredients except chicken. Place in refrigerator until chilled.

Top with chicken.


*I chose the simple recipe for my family. Mostly because I was out of red onion and sun dried tomatoes. Remember, it can be as simple or as complex as you like. Also - don't use zesty italian dressing, it just doesn't taste very good...really....don't do it!

Good luck!

No comments:

LinkWithin

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...