Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

High-Protein Pasta Salad

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Mollyyeh
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiled
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A nutritious and satisfying high-protein pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for meal prep or a light lunch.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 cups whole wheat pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
  • 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, chicken, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black olives.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  5. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • Add a handful of spinach or arugula for extra greens.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg