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–+ servings
Bertha Jones

High-Protein Pasta Salad

This refreshing high-protein pasta salad features chickpea rotini, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base
  • 8 oz chickpea rotini pasta Use Banza or another high-protein brand.
Vegetables
  • ½ medium red bell pepper, chopped Adds crunch and sweetness.
  • ½ medium English cucumber, chopped Refreshing crunch.
  • 1.5 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped Fiber and nutrients.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped Juicy, tangy flavor.
  • 0.25 cup red onion, chopped Mild sharpness.
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped Fresh herby note.
  • 0.25 cup fresh basil, chopped Fragrant flavor.
  • 2.25 oz can sliced black olives, drained Briny flavor.
Dressing
  • 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil Rich base.
  • 4 tbsp red wine vinegar Acidity and balance.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Sharp kick.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Aromatic depth.
  • to taste salt and pepper For seasoning.
Cheese
  • 1.5 oz fat-free feta cheese, crumbled Creamy, tangy finish.

Method
 

Cooking Pasta
  1. Fill a large pot with water and salt it generously. Bring to a rolling boil.
  2. Add the chickpea rotini and cook according to the package until al dente. Avoid overcooking.
  3. Drain pasta and rinse under cold water until cool. Shake off excess water.
Making Dressing
  1. Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Combining Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, chopped vegetables, herbs, feta, and olives.
  2. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
Chilling
  1. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 500mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5g

Notes

For meal prep, this salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can adjust the dressing to your taste and add more acidity if desired.

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