Description
This Easy High-Protein Pasta Salad is a nutritious and delicious meal that comes together quickly. Packed with whole wheat pasta, chicken, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chickpeas, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped herbs. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Swap chicken for tuna, turkey, or hard-boiled eggs for variety.
- For a vegetarian version, increase the chickpeas or add tofu.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
