Good morning! Hooray for the weekend. Any plans? Needing a simple and healthy dinner dish for the weekend? You have come to the right place.
Thankfully the hubs is back in town for a long weekend. {Two thumbs up} This pasta was made last night {thanks to two peas & their pod} and Brady gave his seal of approval. This pasta dish is so versatile. There are endless possibilities of ingredients to add or even take away. Cheese lover? Toss the warm pasta with your favorite for some “cheesy” goodness. Vegetarian? Omit the chicken and add as many veggies as you see fit. Meat lover? Toss with shredded pork or grilled steak.
Did I mention this pasta is easily portable? We packed this dish for a picnic last night and went to Railroad Park. The weather was perfect. If you want a chilled pasta, place in the fridge for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Honestly guys, this is one of the best pasta dishes I have ever made. Want to know what makes this even better? It is super healthy. No added salt, heavy sauces or butter. Enjoy!
Chicken + Arugula Pasta Salad (slightly altered from here)
What you will need:
- 2 skinless chicken breast
- Balsamic vinegar
- 12 ounces whole wheat pasta
- 2 cups arugula
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 green pepper, sliced
- Mozzarella cheese
Ingredients for dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil
- Heat skillet on medium heat with 2 tsp olive oil and add chicken breasts.
- Drizzle with desired amount of balsamic vinegar. Turn chicken every 3-5 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from skillet and allow to rest on cutting board.
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Add arugula, tomatoes, green pepper and sliced mozzarella cheese in large bowl.
- Combine sliced chicken, pasta and other ingredients in large bowl.
- In smaller bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and basil.
- Toss dressing with pasta salad.
- Pasta can be served immediately or placed in fridge to be chilled.
A healthy(er) dessert is in the works for this weekend!
Abundant Simplicity 