This vibrant and nutritious pasta salad combines whole-grain pasta with a medley of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for meal prep, picnics, or as a satisfying lunch that keeps you energized throughout the day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High in Protein – A great way to fuel your body with lean protein from chicken and feta cheese.
Quick and Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Meal Prep Friendly – Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Versatile and Customizable – Swap ingredients to fit your dietary preferences.
Balanced and Nutritious – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz whole-grain pasta
1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ cup red bell pepper, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup black olives, sliced
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Cook Pasta

Cook the whole-grain pasta according to package instructions.
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Prepare Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, feta cheese, black olives, and parsley.

Dress Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Vegetarian Option – Substitute chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or extra feta cheese.
Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free pasta for a wheat-free alternative.
Extra Crunch – Add toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for added texture.
Spicy Kick – Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Lemon Zest – Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing – Not recommended, as the fresh vegetables may lose their texture.
Reheating – Best served cold, but if you prefer it warm, microwave for 30 seconds to take the chill off.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use regular, gluten-free, or even chickpea pasta for extra protein.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook it al dente and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

Try goat cheese, parmesan, or omit the cheese for a dairy-free option.

Is this salad good for weight loss?

Yes! It’s high in protein and fiber, which can help keep you full for longer.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Absolutely! A light vinaigrette or Greek dressing works well as a substitute.

What protein alternatives can I use?

Grilled shrimp, tuna, turkey, or hard-boiled eggs are great options.

Can I add more veggies?

Yes! Bell peppers, carrots, avocado, and spinach are all great additions.

How do I make the dressing creamier?

Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.

Can I serve this warm?

Yes! Skip rinsing the pasta in cold water and serve immediately after tossing.

Conclusion

This Easy High-Protein Pasta Salad is a delicious, nutritious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, packing a picnic, or looking for a refreshing lunch, this salad is a fantastic choice. Try different variations and make it your own!