Why Make This Recipe
High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad is a fantastic meal option for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty and nutritious dish. This pasta salad is perfect for lunch, a picnic, a potluck, or dinner on hot days. It packs a punch of protein from turkey pepperoni, ham, and cheese, making it filling and satisfying. Plus, it includes a rainbow of fresh vegetables that add crunch and flavor. With its zesty dressing and vibrant ingredients, this salad is a fun twist on a classic dish that everyone will love.
How to Make High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 5 oz package of turkey pepperoni
- 1 cup fresh basil
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium cucumber (250 g), diced
- 1/2 red onion (120 g), chopped
- 3/4 cup Olive Garden light Italian dressing
- 1 8 oz box protein or chickpea rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 4 slices ultra-thin provolone cheese, diced
- 1 8 oz package of smoked deli ham (224 g), chopped
- 5 oz of light Italian dry salami (140 g), chopped
Directions:
- Cook the protein or chickpea rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with turkey pepperoni, basil, diced red bell pepper, chopped cucumber, red onion, Olive Garden dressing, feta cheese, provolone cheese, chopped smoked deli ham, and chopped salami.
- Toss everything together until evenly mixed.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve cold and enjoy your high-protein Italian pasta salad!
How to Serve High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad
You can serve this salad chilled, making it a perfect dish for warm weather. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal. Consider garnishing with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra feta cheese to enhance its presentation and flavor.
How to Store High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Tips to Make High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad
- Customize your salad by adding other ingredients like olives, cherry tomatoes, or artichokes.
- If you want it to be extra protein-packed, consider adding some chickpeas or cooked chicken.
- Make sure to let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes; this helps all the flavors combine nicely.
Variation
For a vegetarian option, you can skip the meats and add more vegetables or use plant-based cheese. You can also try different dressing varieties like balsamic vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular pasta instead of protein or chickpea pasta?
Yes, you can use regular pasta, but protein or chickpea pasta gives it an extra boost of protein.
2. How long can I keep this pasta salad in the fridge?
It is best to consume the salad within 3 days for the freshest taste.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep and can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
