Description
This delicious and protein-packed pasta salad is perfect for meal prep or a quick, satisfying lunch. Made with high-protein pasta, tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy Greek yogurt-based dressing, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Ideal for those looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a refreshing and hearty dish!
Ingredients
Scale
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Base:
- 8 oz high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup bell peppers, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
Protein Boosters:
- ½ cup feta cheese or shredded Parmesan
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (for dressing)
- 2 tbsp hummus or light mayo
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Cook Pasta:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
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Prepare Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, hummus (or mayo), lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Assemble Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and olives (if using).
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Add Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
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Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle feta or Parmesan cheese on top and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or grilled chicken for added flavor.
- Substitute feta with another cheese if desired (e.g., mozzarella or goat cheese).
- Make it vegan by omitting the cheese and using hummus or light mayo in the dressing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1 cup salad)
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 60mg