Before diving into the delightful details of the Panera Bread Pasta Salad, let’s think about what could accompany this dish to enhance your meal even further.
Tender, grilled chicken adds protein. Its savory flavors blend smoothly with the salad’s fresh components.
A crispy, buttery garlic bread is always a favorite. Its crunch pairs well with the soft textures of the pasta salad.
Crisp romaine and creamy dressing can provide a nice counterpoint to the zesty pasta salad, creating a festive plate.
Fresh fruits like melons, strawberries, or grapes can provide a sweet contrast to the savory notes, refreshing your palate.
As I stood in my kitchen pondering my next meal, the idea of a vibrant pasta salad took hold. I recalled the warm, inviting atmosphere of Panera Bread and their satisfying pasta salad. This dish struck me as the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition, ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or a simple family dinner.
Pasta salad season is upon us, and this Italian dish has so much to offer. Picture juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy veggies, and a homemade zesty Italian dressing. It’s a great way to incorporate whole grains, protein, and delicious greens. Gather your friends and family around the table, and let’s whip up a bowl of joy with this pasta salad!
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What is Panera Bread Pasta Salad?
Simply put, Panera Bread Pasta Salad is a delightful and colorful dish featuring pasta, fresh vegetables, protein, and a tangy dressing. It combines rotini or penne pasta with vegetables like bell peppers and red onions.
Add to that a dressing made from olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings, and you have a recipe that’s bursting with flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between health and taste. Whole-grain pasta provides necessary fiber, while chickpeas offer protein. Feel free to swap veggies to suit your taste.
Plus, homemade dressing ensures you control the ingredients and avoid preservatives or artificial flavors found in bottled dressings. Each bite offers a refreshing crunch, while the dressing ties everything together, making it a winner for any meal.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Gathering your ingredients is an essential first step. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups whole-grain penne pasta, cooked
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 2-3 sprigs fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
How to Make Panera Bread Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your whole-grain penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta firm. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If you don’t have shredded chicken on hand, you can quickly prepare it. Boil or grill chicken breasts until cooked through. Then shred it with two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. You can season it with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Step 3: Chop the Veggies
Now, let’s get chopping. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the red onion thinly. You can also include additional vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers based on your preference. Colorful veggies not only enhance the appearance but also the taste.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, low-sodium soy sauce, whole-grain Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Whisk everything together until it’s nicely emulsified. Take a moment to taste it; feel free to adjust the seasonings to match your palate.
Step 5: Mix It All Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and any additional veggies. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together gently. Make sure all the ingredients are well-coated.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Finally, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, along with chopped basil. Mix once more for good measure. The cheese adds a creamy texture while the basil brings a fresh element to the dish.
Tips for Making the Perfect Pasta Salad
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps the pasta maintain its shape and texture, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Cool Ingredients: Rinse pasta under cold water. It keeps the salad fresh and prevents it from wilting.
- Make Ahead: Prepare this dish a few hours or the day before serving to let flavors meld.
- Experiment with Protein: Swap chicken for tuna, shrimp, or even beans for a vegetarian alternative.
- Add Crunch: Include nuts or seeds for an unexpected crunch. They offer healthy fats and extra flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week.
How Would I Recommend Serving Panera Bread Pasta Salad?
1. Buffet Style: Set out a large bowl of pasta salad at a buffet. It pairs beautifully with other dishes like grilled meat and a variety of fresh salads.
2. Picnic Delight: Pack it up in mason jars for a picnic. Easy to transport and eat, these jars make for a fabulous group meal outdoors.
3. Lunch Prep: Portion it into meal prep containers. This makes for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
4. Family Gatherings: Bring it as a side dish for family gatherings. The zesty flavor will impress your relatives, leaving them wanting more.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
1. Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta if you want a gluten-free option. Quinoa pasta offers a nutty flavor and protein.
2. Chickpeas: If you don’t have chickpeas, white beans or kidney beans can be tasty substitutes.
3. Cherry Tomatoes: Struggling to find cherry tomatoes? Regular tomatoes diced finely can work just as well.
4. Parmesan Cheese: If you want to skip dairy, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without milk.
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole-grain penne pasta cooked
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ red onion thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for topping
- 2-3 sprigs fresh basil chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness and acidity
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your whole-grain penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta firm. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- If you don’t have shredded chicken on hand, you can quickly prepare it. Boil or grill chicken breasts until cooked through. Then shred it with two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. You can season it with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Step 3: Chop the Veggies
- Now, let’s get chopping. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the red onion thinly. You can also include additional vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers based on your preference. Colorful veggies not only enhance the appearance but also the taste.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, low-sodium soy sauce, whole-grain Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Whisk everything together until it’s nicely emulsified. Take a moment to taste it; feel free to adjust the seasonings to match your palate.
Step 5: Mix It All Together
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and any additional veggies. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together gently. Make sure all the ingredients are well-coated.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
- Finally, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, along with chopped basil. Mix once more for good measure. The cheese adds a creamy texture while the basil brings a fresh element to the dish.
Notes
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps the pasta maintain its shape and texture, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Cool Ingredients: Rinse pasta under cold water. It keeps the salad fresh and prevents it from wilting.
- Make Ahead: Prepare this dish a few hours or the day before serving to let flavors meld.
- Experiment with Protein: Swap chicken for tuna, shrimp, or even beans for a vegetarian alternative.
- Add Crunch: Include nuts or seeds for an unexpected crunch. They offer healthy fats and extra flavor.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this pasta salad vegan?
Absolutely! Replace chicken with chickpeas or roasted vegetables, and skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
2. How long can I keep this pasta salad?
Store leftover salad in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness.
3. Can I use different pasta shapes?
Definitely! Fusilli, rotini, or even farfalle can lend different textures. Choose your favorite!
4. Is it okay to add more veggies?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorites. Spinach, zucchini, or cucumbers can add a burst of flavor and crunch.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Certainly! This recipe scales up nicely, making it perfect for larger gatherings.
6. What dressing can I use instead?
You can use bottled Italian dressing for convenience. A homemade vinaigrette can also substitute for a fresh twist.
Conclusion
The Panera Bread Pasta Salad is an easy, make-ahead-friendly dish perfect for any occasion. It’s colorful, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Be it a family dinner or a sunny picnic, this dish is sure to please.
With various ways to customize it, this recipe will remain a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the fresh flavors and the health benefits that come with each delightful bite. As summer stretches out before us, grab your ingredients and get ready to assemble a bowl of joy!