Name: Indian Curry Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 16 ounces dry fusilli pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb cooked chicken breast (chopped); 1 teaspoon mustard seeds; 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds; 4 curry leaves ((optional)); 6 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 1 jalapeño (deseeded and finely chopped); 1 small white onion (finely diced); 2 cherry tomatoes finely chopped; 1 cup baby Bella mushrooms (sliced); 1/3 cup frozen sweet peas (defrosted); 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 2 teaspoons cumin powder; 1/2 tablespoon garam masala; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 4 tablespoons chopped cilantro; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that mixes the heartiness of pasta with the warm spices of Indian cuisine, then this Indian Curry Pasta Salad Recipe is just what you need. Bursting with colors and flavors, this salad combines cooked chicken with a rainbow of vegetables and a rich, aromatic curry dressing that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is both satisfying and refreshing.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Indian Curry Pasta Salad Recipe is not just your average pasta salad. The unique blend of spices and ingredients creates a deliciously unexpected flavor profile that will intrigue and delight your guests. The juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing come together in perfect harmony, making it a standout dish that everyone will want to try. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences and can be enjoyed warm or cold. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to impress.

What You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious salad, gather the following ingredients:

16 ounces dry fusilli pasta, macaroni, or small shell pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb cooked chicken breast, chopped
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
4 curry leaves (optional)
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 jalapeño, deseeded and finely chopped
1 small white onion, finely diced
2 cherry tomatoes, finely chopped
1 cup baby Bella mushrooms, sliced
1/3 cup frozen sweet peas, defrosted
1/2 cup shredded carrots
2 teaspoons cumin powder
1/2 tablespoon garam masala
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon salt or to taste
4 tablespoons chopped cilantro
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment Breakdown

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand:

Large pot – for boiling the pasta
Skillet – for sautéing the spices and vegetables
Cutting board and knife – for chopping ingredients
Mixing bowl – for combining all the ingredients
Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate ingredient amounts
Serving utensils – for easy serving

From Start to Finish: Indian Curry Pasta Salad Recipe

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your Indian Curry Pasta Salad Recipe:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta (or your choice of macaroni or small shell pasta) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Spices

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Sauté for about 1 minute until they begin to pop and release their aromas.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

To the skillet, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped jalapeño. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the diced onion and continue cooking until the onion is translucent.

Step 4: Mix in the Vegetables

Stir in the chopped cherry tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, sweet peas, and shredded carrots. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

Step 5: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in the cumin powder, garam masala, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, turmeric, and salt. Mix well to combine all the spices with the vegetables. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 6: Combine with Chicken and Pasta

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped chicken, and the sautéed vegetable mixture. Toss to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 7: Finish with Fresh Ingredients

Add the chopped cilantro, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese to the pasta salad. Toss gently to incorporate all the flavors.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

Let the salad cool to room temperature before serving. For best results, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

Feel free to customize your Indian Curry Pasta Salad Recipe with these alternative ingredients for even more flavor:

Swap chicken with chickpeas for a vegetarian option
Add roasted bell peppers for extra sweetness
Include diced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch
Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or farfalle
Use a dollop of yogurt instead of cheese for creaminess

Chef’s Notes

This pasta salad can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep.
Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference.
Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lemon just before serving for a fresh touch.
For a nutty flavor, consider adding toasted cashews or almonds.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Indian Curry Pasta Salad Recipe fresh:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best flavor, avoid freezing, as the texture of the vegetables may change.
If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice when serving.

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The Last Word

This Indian Curry Pasta Salad Recipe is a true celebration of flavors, bringing together the comfort of pasta with the exotic spices of India. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also a joy to eat, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer BBQ or as a quick lunch at home, this salad is sure to become a favorite. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of this delightful fusion dish!