Introducing a delectable delight that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your culinary repertoire – the Pasta Florentine Salad. Bursting with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this salad is a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, ideal for those seeking a quick, nutritious meal without compromising on taste.
Preparation for this culinary masterpiece is a breeze, requiring just a mere 10 minutes of your time before you’re ready to indulge. Let’s delve into the intricate details of this recipe to unveil its magic.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of pasta
- 8 ounces of cooked chicken, diced
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
- 1/3 cup of finely chopped green onion
- 1 cup of fresh basil, thinly sliced
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 990.9
- Fat Content: 61g
- Saturated Fat Content: 9.3g
- Cholesterol Content: 25.9mg
- Sodium Content: 41.9mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 89.3g
- Fiber Content: 4.7g
- Sugar Content: 3.2g
- Protein Content: 22.1g
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Stir vigorously to emulsify and create a harmonious dressing that will coat every ingredient with a burst of citrusy goodness.
-
Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, diced chicken, finely chopped green onion, and thinly sliced fresh basil. Ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed, setting the stage for a symphony of flavors.
-
Incorporate the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and chicken mixture, gently tossing until every morsel is coated in the luscious dressing. This step is crucial as it infuses every bite with a tantalizing tanginess that will leave you craving for more.
-
Allow to Rest: Patience is key in achieving the perfect harmony of flavors. Allow the Pasta Florentine Salad to rest for at least two hours in the refrigerator, allowing the ingredients to mingle and intensify their flavors, culminating in a culinary masterpiece that is worth the wait.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once the salad has marinated to perfection, serve it with pride, garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves for a touch of elegance. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish, or a refreshing main course, this Pasta Florentine Salad is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Cook’s Tips:
- For a vegetarian twist, simply omit the chicken and embrace the vibrant medley of flavors from the fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favorite ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, olives, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.
- To enhance the nutritional profile of the dish, opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options, ensuring that every bite is not only delicious but also nourishing.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Pasta Florentine Salad stands as a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of wholesome ingredients. With just a handful of components and a dash of creativity, you can transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary creation that will leave a lasting impression on your palate. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey filled with flavor, freshness, and a whole lot of love.
