Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad

Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

Region / culture: Peru | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, pasta, and fresh vegetables with a creamy dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

This recipe is inspired by the traditional Peruvian dish "Ensalada de Pollo," which is a popular salad in Peru. The combination of chicken, pasta, and vegetables in a creamy dressing is a favorite among Peruvians and has been adapted into various versions over the years.

Ingredients

Chicken Pasta Salad

0.5 cup of miracle whip salad dressing
0.25 cup of grated parmesan cheese
2 tsp of milk
0.5 tsp of salt
1.5 cup of cooked and chopped chicken
1 cup of cooked and drained corkscrew noodles
1 cup of chopped tomato
1 cup of chopped green pepper
0.25 cup of coarsely chopped onion
lettuce for serving

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine salad dressing, cheese, milk, and salt; mix well.
Add all remaining ingredients except lettuce; mix lightly.
Chill the mixture for several hours or overnight.
Just before serving, if desired, add additional salad dressing.
Serve the mixture on a platter covered with lettuce.

Variations

Add avocado slices or diced mango for a tropical twist.
Use quinoa or brown rice instead of pasta for a gluten-free option.
Add black beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the chicken until it is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

- For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and spices before cooking.

- To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own chicken.

- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables, such as avocado, corn, or black beans.

Serving Suggestions

Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad can be served as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as a side dish for a barbecue or picnic. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta until it is al dente, as it will continue to absorb the dressing as it chills.

- To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.

- For a creamier dressing, you can add more milk or mayonnaise to the mixture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of pasta in this recipe, such as penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta.

- Feel free to use your favorite vegetables in place of the tomatoes, green peppers, and onions.

- You can use any type of cheese in place of parmesan, such as cheddar or feta.

Make Ahead Tips

Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to add the lettuce right before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad on a large platter lined with lettuce leaves for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for added color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few minutes until warmed through, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Per serving, Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Per serving, Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Per serving, Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Per serving, Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and gluten (pasta), so it may not be suitable for individuals with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. With its creamy dressing, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a friend who had just returned from a trip to Peru. She invited me over for lunch and served me this delicious Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

My friend, Maria, graciously shared the recipe with me, explaining that it was a traditional dish in Peru that she had learned to make during her time there. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before - tangy lime juice, savory grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and a hint of heat from the jalapenos. It was a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and I knew it would become a staple in my recipe collection.

I asked Maria to teach me how to make the dish, and she gladly agreed. We spent the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping vegetables, grilling chicken, and tossing everything together with the pasta. As we worked, she shared stories of her time in Peru - the bustling markets, the vibrant colors, and the warm hospitality of the people. It was a truly unforgettable experience, and I was grateful to have learned from such a talented cook.

After that day, I made the Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad for every family gathering, potluck, and dinner party. It became my signature dish, and friends and family would always request it when I was hosting. I loved the way it brought people together, sparking conversation and laughter as we gathered around the table to enjoy the meal.

Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste. I experimented with different types of pasta, added more vegetables, and even tried grilling the chicken with different marinades. Each time, the dish turned out delicious, but there was something special about the original recipe that Maria had shared with me.

As I shared the recipe with others, passing it down through the generations, I always made sure to credit Maria as the source of my inspiration. I wanted to honor her and the culture from which the dish originated, paying homage to the traditions and flavors that had brought so much joy into my life.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, preparing the Peruvian Chicken Pasta Salad for yet another gathering, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences that have shaped me as a cook. From my grandmother's old recipes to Maria's Peruvian influence, each dish tells a story of love, friendship, and cultural exchange. And as I serve the salad to my guests, I know that I am not just sharing a meal - I am sharing a piece of my heart.