Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad
A creamy, refreshing pasta salad packed with lean protein, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy yogurt-based dressing. Perfect for meal prep, it stays delicious in the fridge and is easy to grab for a filling lunch or a quick weeknight dinner.
Method
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Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
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Add the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
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Add the diced chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and feta.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to develop.
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Divide into meal prep containers or serve immediately.
Notes
To keep the salad fresh for several days, store in airtight containers and refrigerate.
If the salad seems dry after chilling, add an extra spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of olive oil before serving.
Customise with more fresh veggies or change up the protein for variety.
Nutrition Information
| Calories | 480kcal |
| Total Fat | 16g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Protein | 40g |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavours often get even better after a day.
How can I increase the protein even more?
Use a protein-enriched pasta, add extra cooked chicken or turkey, or stir cottage cheese into the dressing. You can also mix in cooked eggs or edamame for a protein boost.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap the chicken for chickpeas, tofu, or shelled edamame to maintain a high protein content without meat.
Can I freeze pasta salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables and yogurt-based dressing can become watery and lose their texture when thawed.
What if I don't have Greek yogurt for the dressing?
You can use plain regular yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative, but the dressing will be a little thinner. Add extra Dijon mustard or a spoonful of light mayonnaise for thickness if needed.
How do I keep the pasta salad creamy if it seems dry after chilling?
Stir in a little extra Greek yogurt or a splash more olive oil just before serving to refresh the salad and bring back its creamy texture.
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