Asian Pasta Salad

Name: Asian Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ¼ cup vegetable oil; 3 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds; 12 ounces bow tie pasta (about 4 cups); 2 cups chopped cooked chicken breast meat (or rotisserie chicken); 1 cup shredded carrot; ¾ cup roughly chopped cilantro; ½ cup thinly sliced green onion; ½ cup diced red bell pepper; ½ cup slivered almonds or peanut pieces

By:

Marla Jennings

March 17, 2026

A vibrant Asian pasta salad with colorful vegetables and dressing in a bowl.

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Asian Pasta Salad: A Vibrant, Flavorful Dish

Returning from a family picnic, I stumbled across the remnants of dinner—a colorful, refreshing Asian Pasta Salad that had been nearly devoured. Its blend of flavors and colors left me intrigued, and I couldn’t help but wonder why I hadn’t cooked it sooner. Perfect for gatherings, casual weeknight meals, or holiday celebrations, this dish brings a delightful crunch and an explosion of flavors to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Asian Pasta Salad is more than just a feast for the eyes. It encapsulates a balance of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. Not only is it quick to prepare—ideal for busy evenings or unexpected guests—but it’s also budget-friendly, ensuring you don’t break the bank to serve something delicious.

"This salad was a hit at our family BBQ! The kids loved the crunch, and I adored the dressing. Definitely making it again!" – Jenna, a delighted home cook.

It’s a versatile dish, perfectly suited for warm summer evenings or as a splendid side during a holiday feast.

Step-by-Step Overview

Making Asian Pasta Salad is a breeze! In just a few steps, you’ll have a vibrant dish that’s packed with flavor. Here’s what to expect:

Whip up a tangy dressing.
Cook the pasta and cool it.
Combine everything in a large bowl for a harmonious mix of flavors.

Ingredients

What You’ll Need

Gather these items:

¼ cup vegetable oil
3 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
12 ounces bow tie pasta (about 4 cups)
2 cups chopped cooked chicken breast meat (or rotisserie chicken for convenience)
1 cup shredded carrot
¾ cup roughly chopped cilantro
½ cup thinly sliced green onion
½ cup diced red bell pepper
½ cup slivered almonds or peanut pieces

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp for a delightful twist!

Directions to Follow

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a jar or bowl, mix the vegetable oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and soy sauce. Shake well or whisk until combined. Set aside.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bow tie pasta for about 10 minutes, or one minute less than the package instructions.
Drain the pasta in a colander, then rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Ensure it’s thoroughly drained before transferring it to a large mixing bowl.
Fold in the chopped chicken, shredded carrot, cilantro, sliced green onion, diced red bell pepper, and slivered almonds.
Shake the dressing again and drizzle it over the salad. Toss everything together until well coated.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines on its own but also pairs beautifully with grilled meats, mixed green salads, or spring rolls. For an eye-catching presentation, serve in a large, clear bowl to showcase those vibrant colors. Sprinkle extra sesame seeds and chopped cilantro on top for a finishing touch.

How to Store

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Leftovers can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the best flavor and crunch, consider storing the dressing separately until ready to serve. If you wish to freeze it, I recommend omitting the vegetables beforehand, as freezing can affect their texture.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Pro Chef Tips

To save time, use leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
Enhance the flavor profile by adding a splash of lime juice or a hint of crushed red pepper for some heat.
Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Creative Twists

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative! Substitute quinoa or whole grain pasta for a healthier alternative. You can also try variations like adding edamame, cucumber, or bell peppers. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas.

Common Questions

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this salad?
- You can expect about 20 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes if you let it chill.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
- Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works just as well, making this dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
How should I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, but keep the dressing separate if you want to preserve the crunch.

With its delightful fusion of flavors, this Asian Pasta Salad is bound to become a go-to dish in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!