This high protein pasta salad is not only delicious but also a nutritious option for a quick and easy meal. Packed with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole wheat pasta, it's a great way to satisfy your cravings while staying healthy. Whether you're looking for a simple lunch or a side dish for a barbecue, this recipe won't disappoint. It's versatile, easy to make, and can be customized to suit your personal taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken breast, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and fresh parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
This pasta salad is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken breast and chickpeas.
Whole wheat pasta is a healthier alternative to traditional white pasta, as it contains more fiber and nutrients.
The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs adds a burst of flavor and adds to the nutritional value of the dish.
You can customize this recipe by adding or substituting ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Leftovers of this pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prepping.