Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a burst of exotic flavors? Introducing Tikka Masala Pasta Salad—a delightful fusion that marries the creamy richness of traditional Indian tikka masala with the comforting familiarity of pasta. This vibrant dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a perfect side or main course for any occasion. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a colorful salad that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how to create a refreshing, flavorful dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup tikka masala sauce
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, drain and rinse the cooked chickpeas. Dice the red onion and bell pepper into uniform small pieces.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chickpeas, diced red onion, and diced bell pepper.
- Pour the tikka masala sauce over the pasta mixture, gently tossing to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated and distributed.
- Add salt to taste and mix thoroughly. The sauce should provide most of the seasoning, so be conservative with additional salt.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the salad, gently folding it into the mixture.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled as a refreshing and flavorful pasta salad.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal texture, be sure to cook the pasta al dente. This will help it hold up against the creamy tikka masala sauce without becoming mushy.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, such as cherry tomatoes or cucumbers, for extra crunch and flavor. You can also substitute chickpeas with grilled chicken or tofu for a protein boost.
- Seasoning Matters: Since the tikka masala sauce is already seasoned, be cautious when adding salt. Taste the salad before adjusting the seasoning to avoid over-salting.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, but if you’re not a fan, consider using parsley or mint for a different twist.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the flavors.
- Serve with Style: For an impressive presentation, serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with additional cilantro and a drizzle of extra tikka masala sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 339kcal
Carbohydrates: 62g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
