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Pasta salads have long been celebrated for their versatility and satisfying nature, making them an ideal choice for a variety of occasions, from picnics to potlucks and even weeknight dinners. Among the many pasta salad variations, the Classic Chicken Cobb Pasta Salad stands out for its vibrant combination of flavors and textures. This dish seamlessly marries the classic elements of a traditional Cobb salad with the comforting qualities of pasta, resulting in a hearty meal that is both nutritious and delicious.

Classic Chicken Cobb Pasta Salad

Discover the deliciousness of Classic Chicken Cobb Pasta Salad, a vibrant, nutty twist on a beloved classic. This dish perfectly blends tender rotini or fusilli with fresh vegetables, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy blue cheese, all smothered in a tangy dressing. It's not just flavorful but also packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for any occasion. Perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or family gatherings, this salad is sure to please everyone!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta

2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

4 strips crispy bacon, chopped into small bits

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 ripe avocado, diced

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup crumbled blue cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey or pure maple syrup

1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini or fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a large mixing bowl.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and emulsified, creating a smooth dressing.

      Combine Ingredients: To the cooled pasta in the mixing bowl, add the diced cooked chicken, crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and crumbled blue cheese.

        Add the Dressing: Drizzle the freshly prepared dressing over the pasta salad. Gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring even coating of the dressing without crushing the delicate avocado pieces.

          Season and Serve: Taste the pasta salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and freshly cracked pepper, if desired. Finish by garnishing with finely chopped parsley. The salad can be served chilled or at room temperature for maximum flavor.

            Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

              - Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl for a colorful display. Lightly drizzle with additional olive oil and a sprinkle of blue cheese on top just before serving for an eye-catching look.