Description
Packed with flavor and nutrients, this protein-rich pasta salad is perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a quick, satisfying dinner — hearty, fresh, and super easy to whip up!
Ingredients
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2 cups cooked whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta (penne or rotini)
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1 cup cooked and diced chicken breast (or chickpeas for vegetarian)
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½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ cup cucumber, diced
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¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
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¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and feta.
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Pour dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
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Chill for 10 minutes (optional) or serve immediately. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
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Make it vegetarian by swapping chicken with tofu or hard-boiled eggs.
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Great for lunchboxes or a protein-packed post-workout meal.
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Add olives or avocado for extra flavor and healthy fats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32 g