Easy High Protein Pasta Salad Recipe (gf + healthy)

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This high protein pasta salad is a game-changer. It’s fresh, comes together quickly, and packs a protein punch thanks to the chickpea pasta. In just under 30 minutes, you’ve got a dish that is not only refreshing, but delicious.

This easy pasta salad strikes a perfect balance in its macro content, standing out from typical pasta salads that often lean heavy on refined carbs or saturated fats.

This version uses chickpea pasta, which brings more plant-based protein and fiber to the table, pairs it with fresh veggies for a boost of micronutrients, and dresses it all up with a wholesome Italian dressing that will give you some good fats.

The beauty of this pasta salad? It’s not just good for meal prep during those busy weekdays (I swear it actually tastes better the next day), but it’s also the perfect side dish to bring to a BBQ or get-together.

If you’re craving something light and easy for the summer, give this recipe a go. Trust me, it’s a keeper!

Love fun salad recipes? Try this grinder salad next.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Recipe Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make this High Protein Pasta Salad:

Ingredient Notes

Chickpea Pasta: I used Banza Chickpea Rotini pasta for this recipe but any chickpea pasta will work. Lentil pasta, quinoa pasta, or edamame pasta can serve as alternatives with a similar protein content.

Mozzarella Pearls: I love the mini mozzarella pearls in this recipe but any cheese would work. Cubed feta cheese diced halloumi cheese are also good choices and hold up well in salads.

Bell Peppers, Carrots, & Broccoli: Feel free to use any veggies you like. Snap peas, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber are also yummy in pasta salad.

How to make Protein Pasta Salad: Step by Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chickpea pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 7-9 minutes. 

Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together all of the dressing ingredients.  Set this aside for the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Transfer the drained and cooled pasta to a large bowl. Add the chopped vegetables and 3 oz. of mozzarella pearls.

Step 4: Pour the dressing over the cooked pasta and vegetables. Toss well to ensure that everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. 

Meal Prep and Storage

Prep in Advance: Whip up a large batch of this protein pasta salad to eat throughout the week for lunch. Once you’ve allowed it to cool, transfer it into an airtight container and store.  

Storage: Keep in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. If your pasta salad seems a little dry after storage, you can revive it by adding a splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving.

Recipe Variations

Protein Boost: Incorporate grilled or rotisserie chicken pieces to your pasta salad for a hearty protein punch, which complements the fresh vegetables and dressing, turning the dish into a satisfying meal on its own.

Mediterranean Flair: Swap mozzarella pearls with crumbled feta cheese, add kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.

Southwest Twist: Add black beans,corn kernels, red onion, and diced avocado.

Tropical Getaway: Add some diced mango or pineapple. Black beans or grilled shrimp can enhance the protein content. Add some lime juice, honey, and chili powder to the dressing.

Caprese Pasta Salad: Add some ripe cherry tomatoes and freshly torn basil leaves. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or reduction.

What To Serve With Pasta Salad

There’s so much you can pair with pasta salad! It’s such a versatile dish. Here are some great ideas for what to serve alongside:

Chicken – Think about pairing with a classic lemon herb grilled chicken breast, a tangy honey mustard glazed chicken, or even some spicy buffalo chicken sliders.

Salmon – Pasta salad works wonders with flavors like a dill and lemon baked salmon, teriyaki glazed salmon fillets, or a smoked salmon with a honey glaze.

Shrimp – Try with this zesty lemon garlic grilled shrimp or spicy Cajun shrimp skewers,

Pork – Consider pork chops with a maple glaze or even a savory herb-crusted pork tenderloin.

Sandwich – Elevate a simple lunch with choices like a roasted vegetable and hummus wrap, a classic club sandwich, or a egg salald sandwich.

Burgers – Perfect for outdoor gatherings, think about classic beef burgers with all the fixings, spicy jalapeño cheddar burgers, or even some grilled chicken burgers.

What makes this pasta salad healthy?

This healthy pasta salad recipe is a winner if you are a looking for a healthy option. For starters, it uses chickpea pasta, which is a game-changer.

Unlike your regular pasta that’s mostly carbs, chickpea pasta packs in both protein and fiber, making the salad filling and nutritious.

And then there’s the veggies — bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli. These aren’t just for color; they bring in a bunch of vitamins and minerals and add a good dose of fiber to the mix.

The best part? Beyond being hearty and wholesome, the salad has a balanced mix of macronutrients.

You’ve got your carbs from the pasta, protein from the chickpea pasta and mozzarella, and some good fats from the olive oil…making it a perfecly well-balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Question’s

---

Did you try this recipe? Please consider leaving a star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 rating in the recipe card below. Thank you so much!