Now, don’t get me wrong, there have been variations over the years. Sometimes I add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of extra flavor. Other times, I’ll swap the grilled chicken for rotisserie chicken to save time. The beauty of this balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing is that it’s incredibly adaptable. You can customize it to your family’s tastes and what you have on hand.
I know that life gets hectic, and finding recipes that are both easy and delicious can feel like searching for a unicorn. That’s why I’m so excited to share this with you. It’s a real winner. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies! So, are you ready to make some magic happen in your kitchen? I promise, this balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing will become a family favorite in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Alright, let’s talk ingredients! This balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing is all about fresh, flavorful components. Don’t worry, though – you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences and what you have in your pantry.
- 1 pound cheese tortellini: I usually go for the refrigerated kind, but frozen works too! Just cook according to package directions. For a fun twist, try using a three-cheese tortellini or even a spinach and cheese variety. This balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing is all about versatility!
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Grilled, baked, or even rotisserie chicken works great. If you’re grilling, I like to marinate the chicken in a little balsamic vinegar and olive oil for extra flavor.
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces: Fresh asparagus is a must for that lovely crunch and vibrant green color. If asparagus isn’t your thing, you can substitute with broccoli florets or green beans.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained: These add a burst of intense, sweet-tart flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can leave them out or substitute with halved cherry tomatoes.
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion: Adds a nice bite. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: For a salty, tangy kick. You could also use goat cheese or even parmesan cheese.
- For the Honey Balsamic Dressing:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: The star of the show! I prefer a good quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for dressings.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: For a little tang and emulsification.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds a savory depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be afraid to season generously!
A little tip: I often double the dressing recipe because it’s so good on everything! This balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing truly shines because of its bright dressing. You can store the extra in the fridge for up to a week. This recipe is easily modifiable. I hope you give this balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing a try!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty! Here’s how to make this incredibly delicious balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing. Trust me, it’s easier than it looks!
- Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents the tortellini from becoming mushy. My kids love watching the tortellini float to the top!
- Cook the asparagus: While the tortellini is cooking, steam, grill, or roast the asparagus. I usually steam mine for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s tender-crisp. You want it to still have a little bite! Alternatively, you can quickly grill it for a smoky flavor. Roasting at 400F for 10 minutes is also delicious. Make sure you don’t overcook the asparagus, or it will get mushy. Proper cooking is crucial to the final result of this balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing.
- Cook the Chicken: If you’re grilling the chicken, make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or dicing it. Alternatively, bake at 375 for about 20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165F.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick! This is where the honey balsamic vinaigrette magic happens!
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cooked asparagus, grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
- Dress the salad: Pour the honey balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Make sure everything is evenly coated.
- Chill (optional): You can serve this salad immediately, but I find it tastes even better after it’s been chilled for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
That’s it! Your balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing is ready to enjoy! My family loves this dish. I like to serve it with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious dressing. If you’re making this ahead of time, I recommend keeping the dressing separate and adding it just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. One time, I forgot to rinse the tortellini after cooking it, and it ended up sticking together in one giant clump. Lesson learned! This balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing is a meal prep dream!
Serving Ideas
Okay, so you’ve made this amazing balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing – now what? Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it and make the most of this delicious dish!
- As a main course: This salad is hearty enough to stand on its own as a satisfying lunch or dinner. I often serve it with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the dressing.
- As a side dish: It also makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, fish, or even vegetarian options like grilled halloumi. It adds a burst of freshness and flavor to any meal.
- Picnics and potlucks: This salad is perfect for picnics and potlucks because it travels well and doesn’t need to be heated up. Just make sure to keep it chilled until serving.
- Lunchbox favorite: My husband and kids love taking this salad in their lunchboxes. It’s a healthy and delicious option that keeps them full and energized throughout the day.
- Add some greens: For an extra boost of nutrients, toss in a handful of spinach or arugula before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or sprinkle some chili flakes over the salad for a little heat.
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), they’re great for lunch the next day. You can also add the leftovers to a wrap or sandwich for a quick and easy meal. This balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing is even delicious cold, right out of the fridge.
My daughter, Lily, loves to help me assemble the salad. She’s in charge of adding the feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a great way to get kids involved in the cooking process! This balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing always disappears quickly at potlucks! This balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing is a perfect choice any time of year.
FAQs
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about this balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing, based on real conversations I’ve had with friends and family.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I often recommend making it a few hours ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together. However, I would suggest adding the dressing just before serving to prevent the tortellini from becoming soggy.
Can I use frozen asparagus?
While fresh asparagus is best, you can use frozen asparagus in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the salad. Keep in mind that frozen asparagus may not be as firm as fresh asparagus, so it might not have the same crisp texture.
Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Of course! You can use grilled shrimp, salmon, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. If you’re using chickpeas, I recommend roasting them with a little olive oil and spices for extra flavor.
What if I don’t like balsamic vinegar?
If you’re not a fan of balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. The more veggies, the merrier!
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad will last for up to 3 days in the fridge, stored in an airtight container. However, keep in mind that the tortellini may become a little softer over time.
Can I make this salad low-sodium?
Yes! Use low-sodium chicken broth when cooking the tortellini. Omit the feta cheese or use a low-sodium version. Be mindful of the salt content in the Dijon mustard and sun-dried tomatoes. You may also want to reduce the amount of salt you add to the dressing.
I don’t have Dijon mustard, what can I use instead?
A great alternative is a teaspoon of yellow mustard or a half teaspoon of ground mustard.
Can I grill the asparagus instead of steaming it?
Yes, grilling the asparagus is a great way to add a smoky flavor to the salad. Just be sure to not overcook it! Another friend made this dish recently and her asparagus was burnt and sad, so I told her to try again and steam it next time. This balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing is so flexible. It really is a simple recipe, but a crowd pleaser.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it! My balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing recipe, straight from my kitchen to yours. This recipe has become more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of those busy weeknights when I managed to pull together something delicious and healthy for my family. It reminds me that even in the midst of chaos, a little creativity and a few simple ingredients can create something truly special.
And now, I want to share a few final tips to help you make this recipe your own:
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. Goat cheese, parmesan, or even mozzarella would be delicious in this salad.
- Add some crunch! Toasted nuts, such as almonds or pecans, would add a nice textural contrast.
- Make it vegetarian: Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or chickpeas.
My family has even started adding different variations. My son loves when I add a little sriracha to the dressing for a spicy kick, while my daughter prefers it with extra feta cheese. The possibilities are endless!
I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing as much as my family and I do. It’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a festive summer gathering. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create some magic in your kitchen! I know you’ll love it! Don’t forget to come back and tell me what you think. What variations did you try? Did your family love it as much as mine? I can’t wait to hear from you! Happy cooking!
And remember, don’t hesitate to tweak this balsamic chicken tortellini salad with asparagus and honey dressing to make it your own!
Easy Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad With Asparagus and Honey Dressing
This vibrant balsamic chicken tortellini salad combines tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and cheese tortellini in a tangy honey dressing. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound cheese tortellini
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While tortellini is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool slightly, then dice or shred.
- In the same skillet, add asparagus and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic vinaigrette, honey, and Dijon mustard.
- Add cooked tortellini, chicken, asparagus, red onion, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chilled.
Notes
Add cherry tomatoes or crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and texture. You can also substitute grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken for the cooked chicken breasts.