This Easy High Protein Pasta Salad is a tasty dish full of colorful veggies and protein-packed pasta. It’s quick to make and perfect for lunches or picnics!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a salad that’s filling? I always add some extra cheese on top because, let’s face it, cheese makes everything better! 🧀
I love how easy this pasta salad is—just cook the pasta, mix in your favorite veggies, and toss with dressing. It’s great for meal prep and stays fresh all week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
High-Protein Pasta: I recommend using lentil or chickpea pasta since they are loaded with protein. This makes the salad filling! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, quinoa pasta is also a fantastic choice!
Veggies: Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers add freshness, while broccoli gives crunch. You can easily swap out the veggies based on what you like or have on hand—think bell peppers, spinach, or even roasted vegetables for a different twist.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy tanginess. If you want a dairy-free option, try using vegan feta or skip it altogether. You could also use shredded mozzarella or cottage cheese if you prefer.
Greek Yogurt: This is used in the dressing for creaminess and extra protein! For a lighter version, swap it for plain yogurt or a tahini dressing if you’re looking for something nutty.
How Do You Make Sure Your Pasta Doesn’t Get Soggy?
The key to avoiding soggy pasta is to cook it just until al dente. This means it should still have a bite to it. Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water after draining. This cools it down instantly and stops the cooking, keeping it firm.
- Follow package instructions carefully regarding cooking time.
- After cooking, immediately drain and rinse with cold water.
- Spread it out on a baking sheet if you have a lot to cool down quickly!
Easy High Protein Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salad:
- 8 oz high-protein rotini pasta (such as lentil or chickpea pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge, making a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for meal prep or a quick side dish!
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the high-protein pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm but tender). Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Make sure to drain it well to avoid any excess water in your salad!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth and creamy dressing. This will bring all the flavors together!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta along with cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and chopped parsley. It’s a colorful mix! Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Add the Feta:
Next, fold in the crumbled feta cheese. This will add a savory touch to your salad. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a little more salt or pepper to suit your taste.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and put it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, it can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. It’s a satisfying and nutritious high-protein pasta salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
Enjoy your colorful, tasty, and protein-packed pasta salad! 🌿🍝
FAQ for Easy High Protein Pasta Salad
Can I Use Regular Pasta Instead of High-Protein Pasta?
Yes, you can use regular pasta if you prefer! However, using high-protein pasta boosts the protein content of the salad, making it more filling and nutritious. If you substitute, just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this salad vegan, simply substitute the feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use plant-based yogurt or tahini for the dressing. It will still be delicious and satisfying!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems a bit dry after being stored, add a splash of olive oil or a bit more yogurt before serving to refresh it!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Proteins?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad with any veggies you love, such as carrots, spinach, or bell peppers. You can also add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or beans to increase the protein content even more—get creative with it!
