Get ready to transform your ordinary pasta salad into an extraordinary culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! This Curry Chicken Pasta Salad isn't just another recipe—it's a global fusion of flavors that combines the creamy comfort of classic pasta salad with the bold, aromatic spices of Indian cuisine. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or a unique dinner option, this recipe promises to deliver an unforgettable eating experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup almonds, slivered
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and curry powder, whisking thoroughly to create a smooth, fragrant curry dressing. Ensure the curry powder is fully incorporated into the mayonnaise.
- Finely chop the celery into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the salad. Halve the grapes lengthwise for a consistent size and texture.
- Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the curry mayonnaise mixture. Gently fold to coat the pasta evenly with the dressing.
- Incorporate the shredded chicken into the pasta, mixing gently to distribute the meat throughout the salad.
- Add chopped celery and halved grapes to the pasta mixture. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Toast the slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Season the salad with salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top of the salad just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
Tips
- For the most flavorful result, use freshly toasted curry powder and ensure it's fully mixed into the mayonnaise.
- Cook pasta al dente and rinse with cold water to prevent overcooking and maintain the perfect texture.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut without compromising on taste.
- Toast almonds carefully—they can burn quickly, so keep stirring and watch closely.
- Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop and meld together.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise.
- Customize by adding additional mix-ins like diced red onions or chopped fresh herbs for extra complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
