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As the warm weather rolls in and outdoor gatherings become a regular occurrence, there's nothing quite like a refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer. Enter the Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad—a vibrant and satisfying meal that brings together the bright flavors of lemon, the heartiness of chicken, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Whether you're hosting a picnic, attending a barbecue, or simply enjoying a family dinner, this pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser that is as delicious as it is nutritious.

Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad

Looking for the perfect dish to brighten up your summer gatherings? Try this Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad! Loaded with grilled chicken, vibrant veggies, and a tangy lemon dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether served warm or cold, it's versatile enough for any occasion. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, it's a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (approximately 227g) of fusilli or farfalle pasta

2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced (approximately 1 lb or 450g)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 bell pepper, diced (your choice of color)

¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup cucumber, diced

½ cup black olives, sliced

½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

½ cup olive oil

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon honey

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook following the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water for a few moments to halt the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until they are well blended and emulsified. Set the dressing aside to let the flavors develop.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, sliced grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, diced cucumber, sliced black olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently mix these ingredients together to ensure an even distribution.

        Add Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta and chicken mixture. Using a large spatula or tongs, toss the salad gently to coat all the ingredients thoroughly in the zesty dressing.

          Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant garnish.

            Taste and Adjust: Prior to serving, take a moment to taste the salad. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference. Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing dish.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 4-6

                Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl for an appealing display. You can garnish with extra lemon wedges and a few sprigs of parsley for a pop of color. A sprinkle of additional feta on top can also enhance the visual appeal. Enjoy!