Tanya Rivers
A hearty and vibrant twist on the classic Cobb salad, this Loaded Cobb Pasta Salad is a flavor-packed dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. With tender rotini pasta, juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, crisp cherry tomatoes, and tangy blue cheese, every bite is a delicious balance of textures and tastes.
Unlike a traditional salad, this version includes pasta, making it heartier and more satisfying. The creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully, coating every ingredient with rich, savory goodness. It’s an all-in-one meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or summer gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Cobb Pasta Salad
- It’s a complete meal with protein, healthy fats, and carbs.
- Perfect for meal prep and stays fresh for days.
- The flavors are bold, creamy, and tangy all at once.
- Great for picnics, potlucks, or a quick family dinner.
What Kind of Pasta Works Best for a Cobb Pasta Salad?
Rotini, fusilli, or any spiral-shaped pasta is ideal because the grooves hold onto the creamy dressing and crumbled cheese perfectly. However, you can also use penne or farfalle if that’s what you have on hand.
Ingredients for the Loaded Cobb Pasta Salad
This salad blends fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and creamy elements to create a balanced and flavorful bite. Each ingredient adds a unique texture and taste, making it a satisfying all-in-one meal.
- Rotini pasta – provides a hearty base and holds the dressing well.
- Grilled chicken breast – adds protein and a smoky, savory flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes – bring sweetness and freshness to each bite.
- Avocado – adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- Blue cheese crumbles – provide tangy, bold flavor.
- Baby spinach or romaine – adds a fresh, crisp texture.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing – ties all the ingredients together with creamy richness.
- Fresh parsley – for garnish and a pop of freshness.
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper – enhance the overall flavor.
How To Make the Loaded Cobb Pasta Salad
A quick and easy recipe with just a few steps to bring everything together beautifully.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil rotini pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill or pan-sear until fully cooked and golden brown. Let it rest, then slice into strips.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, fresh spinach or romaine, cherry tomatoes, and sliced avocado.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Top with grilled chicken, crumbled blue cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.
Step 5: Dress and Serve
Drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the salad. Toss gently before serving, or leave as is for a beautiful presentation.
Serving and Storing the Loaded Cobb Pasta Salad
This hearty pasta salad serves 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a shared dish at gatherings. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
To store, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re making it ahead of time, store the dressing separately and drizzle it right before serving to keep the pasta and greens fresh.
What to Serve With Loaded Cobb Pasta Salad?
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides for a full dining experience.
Garlic Bread
The buttery, garlicky crunch complements the creamy pasta salad perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables
A warm tray of roasted zucchini, carrots, or asparagus balances the cold salad.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Adds a smoky sweetness that enhances the Cobb flavors.
Fresh Fruit Salad
A refreshing, juicy contrast to the savory pasta.
Iced Tea or Lemonade
The crisp, citrusy drink pairs wonderfully with the creamy textures.
Deviled Eggs
A protein-rich side that fits well with the Cobb salad theme.
Simple Green Soup
A light soup starter works perfectly for a full-course meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Cook the pasta and chicken in advance, chop the veggies, and store everything separately in airtight containers. Assemble and dress just before serving for the freshest taste.
2. Can I use a different cheese instead of blue cheese?
Absolutely. Feta or shredded cheddar works well if you prefer a milder flavor.
3. What’s the best way to keep avocado from browning?
Toss the avocado slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. It slows down oxidation and keeps them fresh longer.
4. Can I substitute the pasta with a low-carb option?
Yes, you can use zucchini noodles or even cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb version.
5. How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or use spicy grilled chicken for extra heat.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap out the cheese? Did you try it with spicy chicken?
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Conclusion
The Loaded Cobb Pasta Salad is the ultimate combination of comfort and freshness, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a casual lunch or a family dinner, it’s a dish that delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures every time. Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with light sides for a complete meal.
Loaded Cobb Pasta Salad
Equipment
- Large pot
- Grill or skillet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 300 g rotini pasta
- 2 grilled chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 2 cups baby spinach or chopped romaine
- 1/3 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, toss lightly with olive oil, and allow to cool slightly.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill or pan-sear until fully cooked and golden brown. Let rest before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, spinach or romaine, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.
- Top with grilled chicken, blue cheese crumbles, and fresh parsley.
- Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing, toss gently, or serve layered for presentation.