Marry Me Pasta Salad: A Creamy Twist That Wins Hearts Every Time
This Marry Me Pasta Salad brings together juicy grilled chicken, creamy tomato basil dressing, cheese-filled tortellini, and vibrant vegetables in one irresistible dish. Perfect for make-ahead meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. oil from dried tomatoes
- 2 Tbsp. double-concentrated tomato paste
- 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic grated
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
- 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets
- 1 20-oz. pkg. refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini (or 2 [10-oz.] pkg.)
- 1 lb. asparagus trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup oil-packed dried tomatoes cut into bite-sized pieces
- Basil leaves
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Creamy Tomato Basil Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream plus more as needed
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp. double-concentrated tomato paste
- 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic grated
- 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp. paprika
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine the first 9 ingredients (through salt & pepper) in a pint jar with a lid and shake until fully mixed.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag, add marinade, seal, and chill for up to 1 hour.
- Grill marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F. Let cool and chop.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Add asparagus during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth. Chill until needed.
- Combine pasta mixture with cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and Creamy Tomato Basil Dressing.
- Add chilled chicken, mix well, and garnish with basil, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan.
- Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
The dressing thickens as it chills. Add extra cream to loosen if needed.
To store: refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Before serving leftovers, warm slightly or bring to room temperature.
Nutrition
Serving: 1generous bowlCalories: 754.2kcalCarbohydrates: 57.5gProtein: 42.5gFat: 39.9gSaturated Fat: 14.2gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 150.8mgSodium: 871.4mgFiber: 4.8gSugar: 6.2g
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