Description
This creamy high-protein pasta salad blends tender pasta, lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful Greek yogurt dressing for a quick, nourishing meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for lunches, meal prep, or summer gatherings offering a refreshing and satisfying dish rich in protein and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella or feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sliced olives, optional
Creamy Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and Cool Pasta: Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water until cooled, then drain well to remove excess water.
- Prepare Dressing: While pasta is cooking, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, honey, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, shredded cheese, chopped parsley, and olives if using.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional lemon juice, salt, or pepper as desired. Serve immediately or chill for 15–30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Notes
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick, convenient protein option to keep the prep under 20 minutes.
- Greek yogurt adds a rich creaminess and boosts protein content compared to traditional mayonnaise-based dressings.
- For an even higher-protein version, substitute regular pasta with chickpea or lentil-based pasta.
- Add vegetables like broccoli florets, spinach, or pepperoncini to increase flavor and nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Pasta, Lunch, Meal Prep, High-Protein Recipes
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
