A Taste of Summer: Ziti Salad with Chicken, Peas, and Basil Mayonnaise

If you’re in the mood for a refreshing and hearty meal, look no further than this Ziti Salad with Chicken, Peas, and Basil Mayonnaise. This delightful dish combines tender ziti pasta with succulent slices of chicken breast, sweet peas, and a creamy basil-infused mayonnaise. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch of flavor. With its balanced combination of textures and tastes, it's sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.


Photo by Eneida Nieves

Serves 4


INGREDIENTS

  • 1 small red onion, coarsely, chopped
  • 1 pound ziti
  • 1 large chicken breast, already cooked
  • 1 cup freshly shelled peas
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup basil mayonnaise

PREPARATION

Soak the onion bits for an hour in cold water, changing this a few times. Cook the ziti according to package directions until just al dente. Meanwhile, boil the peas in 1/4 cup of water they are tender but not soft, about 4 minutes. Let these cool in any remaining cooking water while you slice the breast meat into slivers. Prepare the salad by draining the onion bits and tossing with the bits of chicken meat, the drained ziti, and peas (plus their liquid). Season with the salt and pepper, and then add enough of the mayonnaise to lightly bind everything together. Serve at once.



JUST SOME STORY

As the days grow warmer and the sun shines brighter, our cravings shift towards lighter, fresher meals that still satisfy. Enter the Ziti Salad with Chicken, Peas, and Basil Mayonnaise—a dish that perfectly captures the essence of a summer feast in every bite.

Imagine a sunny picnic spread where every dish is designed to delight your taste buds while keeping things light and breezy. This ziti salad fits right in, bringing together simple ingredients in a way that feels both comforting and refreshing.

The journey to creating this culinary gem begins with the red onion, which you soak to mellow its sharp bite. This step is crucial, as it ensures the onion contributes a subtle sweetness rather than overpowering the dish. Next, the ziti pasta is cooked until just al dente, maintaining a delightful bite that complements the other components.

The chicken breast, already cooked and sliced into slivers, brings a satisfying protein boost to the salad. Combined with freshly shelled peas that add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, the dish starts to come together beautifully. The key to this recipe, however, lies in the basil mayonnaise—a luscious, herb-infused dressing that ties all the elements together. The basil’s aromatic quality infuses each bite with a hint of summer freshness, transforming this simple salad into something truly special.

Seasoned lightly with salt and pepper, and finished with a touch of basil mayonnaise, this salad is best enjoyed immediately. Serve it on its own or alongside crusty bread for a complete meal that captures the spirit of summer dining.

Whether you’re preparing for a casual get-together or simply looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this Ziti Salad with Chicken, Peas, and Basil Mayonnaise is a go-to recipe that’s both versatile and delicious. Embrace the flavors of the season and savor every bite of this delightful dish.

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