why make this recipe
High Protein Creamy Pasta Salad is a fantastic choice for those who want a quick and nutritious meal. With a great balance of protein, vegetables, and creamy dressing, it is perfect for lunch or dinner. This salad is not only flavorful but also filling, making it ideal for anyone looking to lead a healthier lifestyle. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it great for meal prep!
how to make High Protein Creamy Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup cooked chicken or chickpeas (for protein)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and chicken or chickpeas.
- In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
how to serve High Protein Creamy Pasta Salad
Serve the High Protein Creamy Pasta Salad cold as a side dish or a main meal. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. For a fun twist, serve it in lettuce wraps or add additional toppings like cheese or nuts for crunch.
how to store High Protein Creamy Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers of High Protein Creamy Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days. If you notice the pasta absorbs the dressing and becomes dry, simply add a little olive oil or yogurt before serving to refresh it.
tips to make High Protein Creamy Pasta Salad
- Choose whole wheat or high-protein pasta for an extra boost of nutrition.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, spinach, or broccoli for more color and nutrients.
- For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based yogurt or mayo.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor to your liking.
variation
You can switch the protein in this salad based on your preference. Use tuna, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. This salad is very versatile and can be adjusted to include your favorite ingredients.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep it chilled in the fridge, and it will taste great the next day!
Q: Is it possible to freeze this salad?
A: While it’s not recommended to freeze pasta salad, you can store the dressing separately and mix it with the salad fresh when you’re ready to eat.
Q: How many servings does this recipe yield?
A: This recipe typically serves about 4 to 6 people, depending on the portion sizes.
High Protein Creamy Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A nutritious and creamy pasta salad packed with protein, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup cooked chicken or chickpeas
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and chicken or chickpeas.
- In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
This salad can be prepared ahead of time and can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg