Strawberry Ravioli Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is anything but ordinary. The inclusion of cheese ravioli adds a satisfying, pasta-like richness, while strawberries bring natural sweetness and a pop of color. It’s a creative way to use leftover chicken, and the blend of textures—from crisp greens to soft pasta—makes every bite interesting. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and easy to customize.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked chicken (grilled, roasted, or shredded)

• Cheese ravioli (cooked and cooled)

• Fresh strawberries (sliced)

• Mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or spring mix)

• Crumbled feta or goat cheese

• Sliced almonds or candied pecans

• Red onion (thinly sliced, optional)

• Balsamic vinaigrette or a light poppy seed dressing

Directions

1. Cook the cheese ravioli according to package directions. Drain and let cool.

2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced strawberries, cooked chicken, and cooled ravioli.

3. Add crumbled feta or goat cheese and sliced almonds.

4. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette or your preferred dressing.

5. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to break the ravioli.

6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra strawberries or cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, including cooking and cooling the ravioli.

Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add chickpeas or more cheese-filled ravioli.

• Try a different cheese: Swap feta with blue cheese or shaved parmesan.

• Add more fruit: Blueberries or sliced peaches pair well with strawberries.

• Switch up the dressing: Use honey mustard, lemon vinaigrette, or raspberry dressing for different flavor profiles.

• Go nut-free: Leave out the nuts or use sunflower seeds for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if storing in advance to avoid soggy greens. Do not freeze, as the texture of the ravioli and greens will not hold up well. Reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ravioli?

Yes, just cook it according to the package directions and cool it completely before adding to the salad.

What type of chicken works best?

Grilled, roasted, or even rotisserie chicken works great. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and cooled.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Absolutely. A good-quality balsamic vinaigrette or poppy seed dressing pairs well with this salad.

How do I keep the ravioli from falling apart?

Cool it completely before adding to the salad, and toss gently to prevent tearing.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but store the components separately and toss them together right before serving.

What other cheeses work in this salad?

Goat cheese, blue cheese, shaved parmesan, or even small mozzarella balls can be used.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, but stuffed ravioli gives the salad a unique twist. Penne or farfalle are good alternatives.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

It can be, as long as you store the dressing and ravioli separately and add fresh strawberries right before serving.

Can I use dried strawberries?

Fresh is best for flavor and texture, but dried strawberries can be used in a pinch.

What greens are best?

Spring mix, arugula, baby spinach, or a combination of greens work beautifully in this salad.

Conclusion

Strawberry ravioli chicken salad is a bold and flavorful fusion of savory and sweet, combining familiar ingredients in an unexpected way. Whether you’re looking to shake up your lunch routine or impress guests with something different, this salad delivers. Light, fresh, and satisfying, it’s a creative dish that celebrates the best of seasonal flavors.