Introduction
Summer gatherings, picnics, or even just a quick weeknight dinner—this High Protein Italian Pasta Salad is the perfect dish to brighten up any meal. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate. Picture al dente whole wheat pasta coated in a rich, zesty dressing, mingling with plump cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and the satisfying bite of chickpeas. Every forkful offers a burst of flavor, making it a favorite among friends and family!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, cooked chickpeas, diced cucumber, diced red onion, and fresh basil. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients together.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper until the dressing is well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to ensure that every ingredient is evenly coated in the flavorful mixture.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This waiting period allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Notes or Tips
This salad is very versatile! Feel free to add in or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. For a bit of crunch, consider adding some bell peppers or radishes. To amp up the protein even more, include grilled chicken or turkey slices. This salad can be made a day in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
Cooking pasta to the perfect al dente texture is key for this dish—it allows the pasta to hold its shape and gives a pleasing bite. Rinsing the pasta in cold water stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming mushy. When tossing the salad, use gentle motions to avoid breaking the mozzarella balls, preserving their lovely shape and creamy texture.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad keeps well in the fridge and can be made up to a day in advance. Just give it a good toss before serving to refresh the flavors.
Is this pasta salad gluten-free?
If you need a gluten-free option, swap the whole wheat pasta for a gluten-free variety, and you’ll still have a delicious dish!
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, creating a tastier dish the next day!
Conclusion
This High Protein Italian Pasta Salad is not only an easy and colorful dish to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients and flavors that everyone will love. Whether for a sunny picnic in the park or as a quick weeknight dinner, this salad will surely become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every bite and share the joy of good food with those you love!