Description
A refreshing and nutritious High-Protein Pasta Salad featuring whole grain pasta, lentils, and fresh vegetables, perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole grain pasta (farfalle or rotini)
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup diced sweet onion
- 1 cup canned lentils (drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking the whole grain pasta until it reaches a firm texture.
- Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, mix together the grape tomatoes, zucchini, sweet onion, lentils, goat cheese, and green onions until well combined.
- In a separate small bowl, blend the avocado oil, balsamic vinegar, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Introduce the cooled pasta to the vegetable and lentil mixture, then drizzle the dressing over everything.
- Gently fold the ingredients together until they are evenly coated.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- For the best flavor, refrigerate the bowl for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully.
- Serve the pasta bowl chilled or at room temperature, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if you like.
Notes
- For an extra protein boost, add diced grilled shrimp or tofu.
- Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables; consider adding arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for a delightful twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg