Colorful Pasta Salad

When I picture America’s Independence Day in my mind, it’s full of color. Colorful parades, clothing, blue skies, pool parties, hot air balloons, Americana decor, candy, fireworks, face painting, barbecues, car shows, and food. All of this color got me thinking...how about a colorful FAVAO pasta salad?

This flavorful pasta dish is perfect for any summer celebration and since it has a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. It can easily be substituted for your lunch or dinner. Make a batch for the holiday and it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Be careful...there just might be fireworks in your mouth!

Ingredients:

• 
1 lb raw chicken breast
• 
3 cups cooked whole-wheat pasta

• 1 1/2 cups mushrooms

• 3 cups spinach

• 1/2 cup sliced olives

• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
• 
3/4 cup rice vinegar

• 2 TB FAVAO Italian Seasoning (mixture of rosemary, oregano, basil, and onion)
• 
1/3 cup fresh Parmesan cheese

• 1/3 cup pine nuts

Cook chicken and pasta. Sauté mushrooms and spinach in a frying pan. In a small bowl whisk together vinegar and Italian dressing mix (you can do more or less depending on how strong you want the flavor). In a large bowl, combine all ingredients including dressing. Mix well. Chill in fridge and serve.

Makes 6 servings. About 290 calories per serving.