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Greek Yogurt Caesar Pesto Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken and Arugula

A delightful pasta salad combining creamy Greek yogurt Caesar pesto with grilled chicken, arugula, and juicy cherry tomatoes, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish, Salad
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Chicken
  • 8 ounces chickpea pasta Can substitute with regular whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
  • 2 large grilled chicken breasts Cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Vegetables
  • 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes Sliced in half.
  • 2 cups arugula Adds a peppery bite.
Caesar Pesto Dressing
  • 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt Base for the dressing.
  • 0.33 cup shelled pistachios For crunch.
  • 0.25 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese Plus 2 tablespoons for topping.
  • 1 unit lemon Juice only.
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard For flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon anchovy paste For depth of flavor.
  • 1 cup fresh basil Packed.
  • 0.5 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley Packed.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil Rich flavor.
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt To taste.
  • 0.25 teaspoon pepper To taste.
Garnish
  • unit chopped basil For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the chickpea pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once done, drain and cool.
  2. In a food processor, combine the Greek yogurt, ½ cup grated parmesan, pistachios, lemon juice, dijon mustard, and anchovy paste. Add basil, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
Assembly
  1. Transfer cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add grilled chicken and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle in Caesar pesto sauce, reserving about ¼ cup for later. Toss gently.
  2. Just before serving, add arugula, chopped basil, and remaining parmesan. Toss again and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Customize your pasta with different types, prepare dressing in advance, or mix in additional greens. Serve salad warm or cold, and consider adding capers or olives for extra flavor.