Get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering and protein-packed pasta salad that will tantalize your taste buds. This versatile dish is a perfect symphony of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re craving a nutritious lunch, a refreshing summer side dish, or a hearty addition to your weekly meal prep, our pasta salad recipe will not disappoint.
This protein-rich pasta salad is a culinary masterpiece that boasts a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Juicy grilled chicken, hearty chickpeas, and a medley of colorful vegetables add a symphony of tastes and textures to each bite. The tangy feta cheese crumbles bring a delightful salty contrast, while the vibrant colors of bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and olives create a visually stunning dish.
Not only is this pasta salad a culinary delight, but it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. The protein-packed ingredients, such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, and feta cheese, provide essential amino acids for maintaining muscle mass and promoting satiety. The colorful vegetables are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall health and well-being. With its abundance of nutrients, this pasta salad is a perfect choice for those seeking a balanced and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (such as penne, rotini, or macaroni)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless grilled chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup diced yellow bell pepper
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large bowl
- Whisk
How To Make:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Cut grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine pasta, grilled chicken, chickpeas, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, feta cheese, and black olives (if using).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper to make a dressing.
5. Pour dressing over pasta salad and toss to combine.
6. Allow salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips or Possible Variation:
1. For a vegetarian version, replace grilled chicken with grilled tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas.
2. Add other vegetables to your pasta salad, such as cucumber, zucchini, or broccoli.
3. For a creamy pasta salad, add 1/2 cup of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing.
Fire up your grill and get ready to savor every bite of this tantalizing pasta salad recipe with protein. Its flavor and protein content will leave your taste buds satisfied and your body feeling energized. So, gather your ingredients, invite your friends and family, and let this pasta salad become a staple in your culinary repertoire.