High Protein Italian Pasta Salad – Tasty, Simple & Satisfying
Craving a healthy meal? Discover our high protein Italian pasta salad recipe, packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) box of protein or chickpea rotini pasta, or any shape you like
- 3/4 cup Olive Garden light Italian dressing (192 g)
- 1/2 red onion (120 g), chopped into small pieces
- 1 large bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange, 170 g), chopped
- 1 medium cucumber (250 g), peeled and diced
- 1 (8 oz) package of smoked deli ham (224 g), chopped
- 1 (5 oz) package of turkey pepperoni (140 g), chopped
- 5 oz light Italian dry salami (140 g), chopped
- 4 slices ultra-thin provolone cheese, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (56 g)
- Fresh basil, optional
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta: Begin by cooking the chickpea or protein pasta according to the package directions. Ensure to salt the water generously for taste. Remember, the pasta should be al dente for that delightful firm texture. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down, which also stops the cooking.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While waiting for the pasta, chop your vegetables. Dice the red onion, bell pepper, and cucumber into small, uniform pieces.
3. Chop the meats and cheeses: Slice the smoked deli ham, turkey pepperoni, Italian dry salami, and provolone cheese into bite-sized pieces.
4. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Add the feta cheese, crumbling it gently by hand.
5. Dress the salad: Drizzle the light Italian dressing over your ingredients. Using two large spoons, toss everything together until well coated.
6. Finish with freshness: If using, add fresh basil. Tear or chiffonade the leaves and mix them into the salad.
7. Chill and serve: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
This high protein pasta salad is ideal for meal prep or a hearty potluck dish. Use your favorite lean deli meats or swap in grilled chicken or chickpeas for variety. For a vegetarian version, omit the meats and double up on beans and cheese.
Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/high-protein-italian-pasta-salad/