High Protein Pasta Salad
A colourful, satisfying pasta salad loaded with lean chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing for balanced flavour and texture. Perfect for meal prep or easy lunches, it keeps well in the fridge and is easily customizable to your dietary needs or favourite ingredients.
Method
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and allow it to cool.
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Add the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
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Add the chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and feta.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, 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 for the best flavour.
Notes
Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If the salad seems a bit dry after storing, add a splash of extra dressing before serving.
Swap in your favourite protein or vegetables to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Nutrition Information
| Calories | 420kcal |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 35g |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad is ideal for meal prep and actually gets more flavourful as it sits. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
What pasta works best for this salad?
Any pasta shape can work, but choosing a high-protein pasta adds extra protein to each serving. Penne, fusilli, rotini, or shells are great options.
Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for chickpeas, tofu, or edamame for a vegetarian version. For vegan, use a plant-based yogurt and omit or replace the feta cheese.
Can I freeze pasta salad?
It's not recommended to freeze pasta salad, as the vegetables lose their texture and the dressing may separate or become watery after thawing.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
You can substitute feta with goat cheese, fresh mozzarella, or leave it out for a dairy-free version. Crumbled firm tofu also works as a protein-rich, dairy-free alternative.
How do I prevent the pasta salad from getting dry?
If the salad seems a bit dry after storing, stir in an extra spoonful of Greek yogurt, a splash of olive oil, or squeeze of lemon before serving. This refreshes the texture and keeps it creamy.
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