High-Protein Pasta Salad
A healthy and hearty pasta salad packed with protein and fresh vegetables, perfect for a quick meal or picnic.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta
- 1 cup grilled chicken breast (diced)
- ½ cup chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- ½ cup edamame or green peas
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ½ cup cucumber (diced)
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup feta cheese (optional) optional
- 2 tbsp sunflower or pumpkin seeds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Greek yogurt (for creaminess, optional) optional
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil (chopped)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, chickpeas, edamame, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta, and seeds in a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss well to coat.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
Customize with other vegetables or proteins for added variety.