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High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
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A satisfying and nutrient-packed High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad combining whole wheat or chickpea pasta, lean cooked chicken breast, fresh vegetables, tangy Italian dressing, and savory Parmesan cheese. This colorful and easy-to-make salad is perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, or a tasty side dish that holds well in the fridge for several days.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 2 cups whole wheat or chickpea pasta (uncooked)

Protein

  • 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, diced

Vegetables & Herbs

  • ½ cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped

Dressing & Cheese

  • ½ cup Italian dressing (zesty, herb-infused)
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the whole wheat or chickpea pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well, rinse under cold water to stop cooking, and set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: While pasta cooks, dice cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Slice pepperoncini peppers, halve cherry tomatoes, thinly slice red onion, and roughly chop fresh basil and parsley for freshness balanced with texture.
  3. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chicken, pepperoncini, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, and herbs. Drizzle with Italian dressing and toss well to ensure every bite is coated and flavorful.
  4. Add the Finishing Touches: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and gently toss again. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld beautifully.

Notes

  • Pasta choice matters: Opt for whole grain or legume-based pasta to maximize protein and fiber content.
  • Cook pasta al dente: This ensures the salad keeps a pleasant firmness and doesn’t get mushy after chilling.
  • Prep ahead: The salad tastes even better after resting overnight, allowing flavors to deeply combine.
  • Balance acid and fat: A good quality Italian dressing with a hint of acidity brightens the rich flavors of cheese and protein.
  • Fresh herbs add vibrance: Don’t skip fresh basil and parsley as they enhance freshness and complexity.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein, Italian pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, meal prep salad, whole wheat pasta, chickpea pasta, chicken pasta salad, Mediterranean salad

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/high-protein-italian-pasta-salad-recipe/