Ever tasted a pasta salad so good it should be illegal?
Imagine a delightful mix of flavors, colors, and textures all tossed together, making your taste buds dance with joy. That’s exactly what you get with this High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad! It’s quick to whip up, packed with vibrant ingredients, and feels like a mini Italian getaway on your plate. Trust me, your lunch game will never be the same!
Why make this recipe
Let’s be real, who doesn’t love a dish that’s pretty much a party in a bowl? Here are a few reasons why this pasta salad rocks:
- Easy cleanup: Just one bowl for mixing and one pot for boiling pasta. That’s less time scrubbing and more time munching!
- Family-friendly: Kids love pasta, right? Throw in some colorful veggies, and you’ve got a meal that appeals to all ages.
- Protein-packed: With chickpeas and mozzarella, you’re not just filling up; you’re fueling up!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 8 oz pasta (any type)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Let’s dive into how you create this magic:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, chickpeas, black olives, mozzarella, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. Enjoy your healthy high-protein Italian pasta salad!
How to make High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad (Overview)
Making this pasta salad is a breeze! First, you’ll cook the pasta until it’s al dente. While it’s cooling, grab a big bowl and toss in all those fresh veggies, chickpeas, and gooey mozzarella. Then, mix your dressing in a smaller bowl — it’s like a little flavor party for your salad. 💃 Finally, pour the dressing over everything and give it a good toss. Pro tip: Let it chill in the fridge for an hour for flavors to mingle, but who’s counting?
How to serve High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad
Serve this pasta salad in all its colorful glory! Pile it high in a bowl, sprinkle some extra fresh basil on top for that lush aroma, and watch everyone’s eyes light up. It’s delicious as a side dish or as a main course on a hot summer day. You can even serve it with crusty bread or grilled chicken for a full feast. The vibrant colors and crunchy veggies make it a feast for the eyes as much as the taste buds!
How to store High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad
You might have leftovers (or not, let’s be real). Either way, this pasta salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container. If you plan on making it ahead, the flavors deepen overnight, so it can be like a flavor bomb waiting to explode in your mouth! 💥 It’s not recommended to freeze, as the veggies can lose their crunch.
Tips to make High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad
- Switch up the pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a different texture and health boost.
- Veggie overload: Add in whatever veggies you have on hand — broccoli, zucchini, or even roasted red peppers would be delicious!
- Make it zesty: A squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten up the flavors like nothing else!
Variation
Want to mix things up? Go vegan by swapping mozzarella for vegan cheese or tofu! You might also sprinkle in some grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier salad. The best part? You can customize it to your heart’s desire!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge — so perfect for meal prep!
What can I substitute for chickpeas?
Try black beans or kidney beans for protein-packed alternatives that add a different flavor.
How long does this pasta salad last?
In the fridge, it keeps well for about 3 days, just make sure it’s in a sealed container!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, chickpeas, black olives, mozzarella, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.