Description
This High Protein Pasta Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish featuring whole grain pasta, fresh vegetables, chickpeas for protein, and a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a healthy side, it offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors with the creamy feta, briny olives, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Salad
- 2 cups whole grain pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas or any white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the whole grain pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, drained chickpeas, crumbled feta, sliced black olives, chopped parsley, and chopped basil.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified and well combined to create a bright, tangy dressing.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Gently toss to evenly coat all the ingredients in the flavorful dressing.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the taste.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Use whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- Can substitute chickpeas with any white beans for variation.
- Make ahead and refrigerate for several hours or overnight for best flavor.
- For vegan option, omit feta or substitute with vegan cheese.
- Add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch and protein.
