Healthy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Calories

350

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.

2. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste (if using), black pepper, and sea salt until smooth.

3. Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled chicken slices, chopped romaine lettuce, and cherry tomatoes.

4. Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.

5. Top and Serve: Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan cheese before serving.

Health Benefits:

– Whole Wheat Pasta: Provides fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer.
– Grilled Chicken: High in protein, promoting muscle repair and growth.
– Greek Yogurt: Contains probiotics for gut health and is lower in fat compared to traditional Caesar dressing.
– Romaine Lettuce: Low in calories and high in vitamins A and K.
– Olive Oil: A source of healthy monounsaturated fats which support heart health.
– Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health.

Ingredients

2 cups whole wheat pasta (such as penne or rotini)
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp anchovy paste (optional)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp sea salt