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Creamy High Protein Pasta Salad Recipe

Creamy High Protein Pasta Salad Recipe
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★★★★★

5.3 from 7 reviews

A vibrant and creamy high-protein pasta salad featuring chickpea rotini, fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect as a nutritious side or a light main dish, this salad is packed with protein, fiber, and fresh flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz chickpea rotini pasta (like Banza)

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced (110g)
  • 1/2 English cucumber, diced (135g)
  • 1.5 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (125g)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced (145g)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil

Cheese & Olives

  • 1.5 oz crumbled fat-free feta cheese
  • 2.25 oz can of sliced black olives, drained

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (50g)
  • 4 tablespoons red wine vinegar (50g)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, finely minced
  • Salt and pepper to your preference

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chickpea Pasta: Begin by cooking the chickpea rotini according to the package instructions, aiming for the lower end of the cooking time to keep the pasta firm and prevent mushiness. Once al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking. Transfer pasta to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a container, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified. Set the dressing aside.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the diced red bell pepper, cucumber, finely chopped broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, red onion, fresh parsley, basil, crumbled fat-free feta cheese, and sliced black olives to the bowl with the pasta. Pour the dressing over the mixture.
  4. Mix and Chill: Thoroughly stir all ingredients together to ensure even coating with the dressing. Transfer the pasta salad to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Serve and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the salad and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimum flavor. Serve chilled and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use chickpea pasta for a protein-packed and gluten-free option.
  • Rinsing pasta after cooking prevents it from sticking and stops further cooking.
  • Chilling the salad enhances flavor blending and texture.
  • Fat-free feta keeps the salad light while adding a creamy tang.
  • This salad can be prepared ahead and kept refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein pasta salad, chickpea pasta salad, gluten free pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, Mediterranean pasta salad, no-mayo pasta salad

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