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Creamy High Protein Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Quick Weeknight Fix

A large bowl of Creamy High Protein Pasta Salad with fresh vegetables and feta cheese.
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A creamy high-protein pasta salad made with chickpea pasta, fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy Dijon vinaigrette for a refreshing and nutritious meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz chickpea rotini pasta
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely minced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/2 English cucumber, chopped
  • 1.5 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender-crisp
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2.25 oz sliced black olives
  • 1.5 oz crumbled fat-free feta cheese
  • 1 garlic clove, freshly minced
  • 4 tablespoons vinegar (red wine vinegar preferred)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Cook the chickpea pasta according to package instructions, using the lower end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

2. Drain the pasta, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

3. In a separate container combine the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

4. Whisk the dressing ingredients together until fully combined and emulsified.

5. Add the red onion, bell pepper, basil, cucumber, broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, parsley, olives, and feta cheese to the bowl with the cooled pasta.

6. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetables.

7. Mix everything thoroughly so the salad is evenly coated in the dressing.

8. Transfer the pasta salad to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

9. Taste before serving and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Notes

Cooking chickpea pasta slightly under the recommended time helps prevent it from becoming mushy.

Rinsing the pasta with cold water stops the cooking and keeps the salad fresh and firm.

This salad can be made several hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Add extra herbs or vegetables like spinach or arugula for additional flavor and nutrition.

Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/creamy-high-protein-pasta-salad/