Print

High Protein Pasta Salad Recipe

High Protein Pasta Salad Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 6 reviews

This High Protein Pasta Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Packed with protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas, grilled chicken, and feta cheese, it combines fresh vegetables with a tangy lemon vinaigrette for a balanced and satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and great for meal prep, this salad is a perfect choice for those looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a flavorful, wholesome pasta dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta Salad

  • 2 cups whole wheat penne pasta
  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup cooked grilled chicken breast, diced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Lemon Vinaigrette

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until emulsified and well combined.
  3. Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, chickpeas, diced grilled chicken, crumbled feta cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, sliced kalamata olives, and fresh parsley. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. Toss with dressing: Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients thoroughly with the dressing.
  5. Chill and serve: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the grilled chicken or replace it with additional chickpeas or tofu.
  • Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking to prevent it from sticking and to cool it for the salad.
  • This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Add other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch and color.
  • Adjust seasoning and lemon juice according to taste preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, Mediterranean pasta salad, protein rich salad, whole wheat pasta salad

Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/high-protein-pasta-salad-recipe/