From Time to Time, A New Favorite is Born

From time to time, I find myself craving a fresh, flavorful dish, that and just a little different from the usual pasta salads. One day, I had leftover grilled chicken, a handful of cashews, and a few vegetables that needed to be used up. Instead of making my usual salad, I decided to mix things up and create something new. That’s how this Cashew Chicken Pasta Salad was born!

I remember the first time I made it—standing in the kitchen, unsure if the mix of ingredients would work. But after that first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The crunch from the cashews, the tenderness of the chicken, the fresh crispness of the vegetables, and the creamy dressing blended so perfectly.

It reminded me of a dish I once had at a summer gathering, where every bite was both satisfying and refreshing. Since then, it has become my go-to recipe when I need something quick, delicious, and versatile.

The best part about this salad is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to add extra protein, switch up the flavors, or make it completely vegetarian, this dish allows for endless creativity. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a side at your next cookout.

What Makes This Cashew Chicken Pasta Salad Special?

This salad stands out because it combines the heartiness of pasta, the crunch of cashews, and the freshness of crisp vegetables, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s filling enough to be a main dish but light and refreshing at the same time.

The homemade dressing brings everything together with its hints of sesame, garlic, and ginger, creating a unique sweet-savory balance that pairs beautifully with the cashews. Whether you’re looking for something different for lunch, a new potluck favorite, or a meal-prep option, this dish has you covered!

Perfect For:

• Weeknight Dinners – Quick and easy to prepare.
• Picnics & Potlucks – Travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Meal Prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for a couple of days.
• Light Summer Meals – A great option for warm days when you want something cool and refreshing.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne)
• 2 cups cooked, diced chicken breast
• ½ cup cashews (lightly toasted)
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup celery, chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ¼ cup green onions, chopped
• ½ cup mandarin oranges (drained, optional)

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot (for cooking pasta)
• Colander (for draining pasta)
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk (for dressing)
• Knife & cutting board
• Measuring cups & spoons

How to make Cashew Chicken Pasta Salad

Step 1:

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.

Step 2:

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 3:

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, red bell pepper, celery, red onion, shredded carrots, green onions, and cashews.

Step 4:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 5:

Stir in mandarin oranges if using, and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Additional Tips

• Toast the Cashews Lightly – This enhances their natural flavor and adds a richer crunch to the salad.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience – If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
• Let the Pasta Cool Completely – Rinsing it with cold water prevents it from becoming mushy and helps it absorb the dressing better.
• Add Dressing Just Before Serving – If making ahead, store the dressing separately and toss it right before eating to keep everything fresh.
• Customize the Crunch – If you want more crunch, add extra cashews or sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
• Balance the Sweet and Savory – If you prefer a less sweet dressing, reduce the honey slightly or add a splash of rice vinegar for more tang.
• Make It a Warm Salad – Skip the chilling step and serve it warm for a cozy variation during colder months.

Optional Ingredients

1. Mandarin Oranges – Adds a sweet, citrusy burst of flavor.
2. Chopped Cilantro – Brings a fresh, herbal element.
3. Sliced Cucumbers – Adds extra crunch and a refreshing taste.
4. Chopped Pineapple – Introduces a tropical twist.
5. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Gives a little heat for those who like spice.
6. Sesame Seeds – Enhances the Asian-inspired flavors in the dressing.

What to Pair with Cashew Chicken Pasta Salad?

If you’re serving it as a main dish, pair it with a simple side of garlic bread or a light soup like miso or egg drop soup. The warm contrast pairs beautifully with the cool, crisp salad.

For a lighter pairing, enjoy it with a fresh fruit salad or a green side salad. The balance of flavors works wonderfully together.

If you’re bringing it to a potluck or picnic, consider serving it alongside grilled meats like teriyaki chicken skewers, BBQ ribs, or shrimp kebabs, as the sweet and savory flavors complement grilled dishes perfectly.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Version – Swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh for a plant-based twist. Add a little extra soy sauce or tamari for extra umami flavor.

Dairy-Free Option – Use dairy-free mayo or a yogurt-based dressing for a creamy yet lighter texture. Coconut yogurt adds a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the cashews.

Gluten-Free Pasta Salad – Use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles to make this dish gluten-free. You can also swap in quinoa for an extra boost of protein.

Extra Protein Boost – Add boiled eggs, shrimp, or even sliced steak for a more protein-packed meal. Adding chopped almonds or sunflower seeds will also give a protein-rich crunch.

Spicy Kick – Mix in sriracha, chili flakes, or hot honey to the dressing for a bit of heat. For even more spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or freshly grated ginger.

Crunchier Version – Add toasted slivered almonds, crushed peanuts, or crispy wonton strips for extra texture. Water chestnuts also bring a satisfying crunch.

Asian-Inspired Twist – Mix in soba noodles instead of pasta, shredded cabbage, or edamame beans for a more traditional Asian-style salad. Adding a drizzle of hoisin sauce can bring an extra layer of sweetness.

Sweet & Tangy Version – Replace honey with maple syrup or add a bit of orange zest for a natural sweetness. A splash of balsamic vinegar also enhances the depth of flavor.

How to Store

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If making ahead, store the dressing separately and mix before serving to keep the salad fresh.

For longer storage, keep the cashews in a separate container to prevent them from losing their crunch. You can also refresh the salad by adding an extra splash of dressing before eating.

FAQ

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta al dente and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps it firm and prevents it from absorbing too much dressing.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta work best, you can also use whole wheat pasta, chickpea pasta, or even soba noodles for a different twist.

What’s the best way to season the chicken?

For extra flavor, season the chicken with garlic powder, soy sauce, black pepper, and a dash of sesame oil before cooking. Grilled or rotisserie chicken also adds a smoky depth.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken for chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh. Roasted mushrooms or edamame can also be a great protein-packed alternative.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this salad stays fresh for up to 3 days. If it starts to dry out, add a little extra dressing before serving.

Can I make a healthier version of this salad?

Yes! Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo, swap in whole wheat pasta, and add extra veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded cabbage for more fiber.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Of course! While homemade dressing gives the best flavor, a high-quality Asian-inspired or sesame dressing can be a quick and delicious alternative.

What can I use instead of cashews?

Try using toasted almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, or crispy wonton strips for a different crunchy texture.

What other proteins can I add besides chicken?

You can swap chicken for shrimp, salmon, turkey, or even sliced steak for a new flavor variation.

Cashew Chicken Pasta Salad

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: SaladsCuisine: Asian, AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Total time

25

minutes

This Cashew Chicken Pasta Salad is creamy, crunchy, and packed with a delicious sweet and savory Asian-inspired flavor. It’s great for meal prep, picnics, and potlucks and comes together in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients

• For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne)

• 2 cups cooked, diced chicken breast

• ½ cup cashews (lightly toasted)

• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced

• ½ cup celery, chopped

• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced

• ½ cup shredded carrots

• ¼ cup green onions, chopped

• ½ cup mandarin oranges (drained, optional)

• For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.
• In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper until smooth.
• In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, red bell pepper, celery, red onion, shredded carrots, green onions, and cashews.
• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
• Stir in mandarin oranges if using, and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.