Description
A delicious and nutritious High-Protein Pasta Salad perfect for a healthy meal or side dish.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole wheat pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, cooked chicken, feta cheese, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable and chicken mixture. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve the pasta salad garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or black beans for added protein.
- Add a handful of spinach or arugula for extra greens and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 50mg