High Protein Pasta Salad
High Protein Pasta Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the goodness of pasta and protein-rich ingredients. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for dinner. This recipe is easy to make and filled with flavors from fresh vegetables and a tasty dressing.
Why Make This Recipe
This High Protein Pasta Salad is not only packed with protein but also loaded with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. It’s a great way to enjoy a meal that’s filling and healthy. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch or a nutritious dinner option, this salad will satisfy your hunger while keeping your energy up.
How to Make High Protein Pasta Salad
Making High Protein Pasta Salad is simple and quick. Just follow these steps:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225 g) chickpea pasta (or regular pasta, uncooked)
- 1 cup (240 g) cottage cheese (or plain Greek yogurt)
- ½ cup (110 g) white beans (or chickpeas, cooked or canned)
- ½ cup (80 g) frozen peas
- 5 oz (150 g) tomatoes (or ¾ red bell peppers, diced)
- â…“ English cucumber (sliced)
- 1 cup spinach (chopped)
- ¼ onion (finely diced, optional)
- 2 tbsp black olives (sliced, optional)
- 1 ½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tbsp balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
- ½ tsp sea salt (or more to taste)
- â…“ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
Directions:
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Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, mix the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sea salt, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Set aside.
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Make the pasta salad: Cook the chickpea pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and let it cool. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cottage cheese, white beans, frozen peas, tomatoes, cucumber, spinach, onion, and black olives. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well until everything is combined.
How to Serve High Protein Pasta Salad
Serve the High Protein Pasta Salad in bowls or on a large platter. It can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a versatile dish that can be eaten immediately or saved for later.
How to Store High Protein Pasta Salad
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after being in the fridge, you can add a splash more olive oil or a bit of vinegar to refresh it.
Tips to Make High Protein Pasta Salad
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the salad.
- If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding nuts or seeds.
- For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can customize this pasta salad by using different types of pasta, swapping in other legumes, or adding cooked chicken or tuna for even more protein. You might also try different dressings, such as a creamy ranch or a lemon vinaigrette.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular pasta instead of chickpea pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Chickpea pasta is just higher in protein!
2. Is this salad good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate if possible to avoid sogginess.
3. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Simply replace cottage cheese with a plant-based yogurt or skip it altogether. The salad will still be delicious and filling!
