Hawaiian BBQ Pasta Salad
A vibrant and refreshing Hawaiian BBQ Pasta Salad with grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (grilled is best for flavor)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced (use assorted colors for a vibrant look)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/3 cup green onions, chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside in a large mixing bowl.
- If you haven't done so already, grill or sauté the chicken breast until golden brown and fully cooked. Allow it to rest for a few minutes, then dice it into bite-sized pieces.
Combining Ingredients
- In the bowl with the cooled pasta, add the diced chicken, pineapple chunks, diced bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, corn, finely chopped red onion, shredded carrots, and chopped green onions. Toss everything together gently to combine.
Making the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finishing Touches
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until all the ingredients are well-coated.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy your tropical feast!
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture. Adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your taste. Chill the salad before serving for improved flavor blending.