Caesar Chickpea Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken and Kale
Summer is pasta salad season and adding lettuce not only makes it a pasta salad salad (ha!) but it also ups the nutrition load. We’re talking more fiber, more folate, and more fullness. But these aren’t your regular pasta noodles. I used chickpea noodles for that added protein benefit. Not to mention it’s delicious and took no time to make. Try it and let me know what you think.
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Ingredients
grilled chicken or Fresh Additions grilled chicken bites12oz
shredded kale12oz
chickpea pasta8oz
Caesar salad dressing1/3cup
Shredded Parmesan cheese (to taste)
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Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
255.0kcal (12.75%)
Protein
22.8g (45.5%)
Carbs
16.3g (5.91%)
Sugars
1.5g (3%)
Healthy Fat
6.1g
Unhealthy Fat
2.3g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Caesar Chickpea Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken and Kale
- Step 1
Bring 2 quarts of salted water to a rapid boil and add chickpea pasta. Cook until al dente, approximately 10 to 13 minutes.
- Step 2
While the pasta is cooking, chop grilled chicken into bite-size pieces and add to a large bowl. Add shredded kale to the same bowl with the chicken, picking out any thick stems, and mix together.
- Step 3
When the pasta is finished cooking, drain and add to the bowl with the chicken and lettuce mix to incorporate.
- Step 4
Top with shredded Parmesan cheese and Caesar salad dressing and serve.
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Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
255.0kcal (12.75%)
Protein
22.8g (45.5%)
Carbs
16.3g (5.91%)
Sugars
1.5g (3%)
Healthy Fat
6.1g
Unhealthy Fat
2.3g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Use chickpea pasta for added protein and a unique flavor.
Pick out thick stems from the kale for a better texture.
Measure Parmesan cheese with your heart for the perfect taste.
FAQS
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta of your choice, but chickpea pasta adds extra protein and a unique flavor.
Can I substitute the Caesar salad dressing?
Yes, you can use any salad dressing you prefer, but Caesar dressing complements the flavors well.
How do I ensure the kale is tender?
Remove thick stems from the kale before mixing it into the salad for a better texture.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but add the dressing and cheese just before serving for the best taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use chickpea pasta and ensure the Caesar dressing is gluten-free.
Whitney Hegedus MS RD LDN
(@adietitiansdinner)
I'm a dietitian and busy mom of two make quick, easy and healthy recipes to get dinner on the table quickly using the cleanest convenience foods I can find from you everyday grocery stores to make cooking dinner approachable and fun!
...Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia