High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad

This High Protein Italian Pasta Salad is the ultimate balance of flavor and nutrition. A medley of fresh Roma tomatoes, zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory light salami come together to create a protein packed dish. Tossed in a creamy homemade Italian dressing, every bite is bursting with fresh herbs and tangy goodness.

Perfect for meal prep, summer gatherings, or a quick lunch on the go, this pasta salad is easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and proteins. Whether you’re looking for a high-protein meal or just a deliciously refreshing dish, this recipe is a must-try!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 box Barilla Protein+ Pasta

• 2 medium Roma tomatoes, chopped

• 1 medium zucchini, chopped

• 2 oz. cheddar cheese, cubed

• 1/2 cup light salami, chopped

• 1/2 red onion, finely diced

• 1/4 cup pepperoncinis, chopped

• 1/4 cup homemade creamy Italian dressing

Homemade Creamy Italian Dressing:

• 1/4 cup light mayo

• 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tsp minced garlic

• 1/2 tsp dried basil

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp salt

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and allow to cool.

2. While pasta cools, chop all vegetables, cheese, and salami.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, zucchini, cheddar cheese, salami, red onion, and pepperoncinis.

4. In a food processor, blend together all dressing ingredients until smooth.

5. Add cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture and drizzle 1/4 cup of the dressing over the top. Toss to combine.

6. Adjust seasoning and add more dressing to taste.

7. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a more refreshing dish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Kcal: 266 kcal per serving | Servings: 8

High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad: A Delicious and Nutritious Meal for Any Occasion

Pasta salad is a classic dish that can be enjoyed year-round, but this High Protein Italian Pasta Salad takes it to the next level by incorporating protein-packed ingredients that make it more satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a meal prep friendly option, a fresh and flavorful side dish, or a complete meal to keep you energized throughout the day, this recipe has you covered.

Unlike traditional pasta salads that rely heavily on refined carbs and creamy, calorie dense dressings, this version is well balanced with lean protein sources, fibe rich vegetables, and a homemade creamy Italian dressing that enhances the flavors without overpowering the dish. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a delicious meal while also making mindful eating choices.

Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Pasta Salad

1. Packed with Protein for Sustained Energy

Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a crucial role in muscle repair, metabolism, and overall health. Many traditional pasta salads lack protein, which can lead to quick spikes and crashes in energy levels. This recipe incorporates high-protein pasta, lean deli meats like light salami, and cheddar cheese, giving it a higher protein content than standard pasta salads.

If you’re looking to make this recipe even higher in protein, you can customize it by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or extra cheese. Using protein-enriched pasta (such as Barilla Protein+ or chickpea pasta) is another simple way to increase the protein content while maintaining the classic pasta salad texture.

2. A Balanced Combination of Macronutrients

One of the biggest challenges with pasta dishes is that they can sometimes feel too heavy or carb-dominant. This High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad is designed to be well-balanced with the right proportion of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein to keep you feeling full and energized for hours.

• Carbohydrates: The protein-enriched pasta provides slow-digesting carbs that fuel your body without causing rapid blood sugar spikes.

• Protein: Salami, cheese, and Greek yogurt in the dressing contribute to the overall protein content.

• Healthy Fats: Olive oil and cheese offer heart-healthy fats that enhance the dish’s flavor while keeping you satisfied.

This balance makes it a great option for those following a high-protein, moderate-carb diet or anyone who wants a wholesome meal without feeling weighed down.

3. Customizable and Meal-Prep Friendly

One of the best things about pasta salad is its versatility. You can modify the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal dietary preferences. Some great substitutions or additions include:

• Protein swaps: Instead of salami, try grilled chicken, turkey, or shrimp for a leaner protein option.

• Vegetable additions: Bell peppers, cucumbers, spinach, or artichoke hearts can add even more nutrients and crunch.

• Dressing variations: If you’re short on time, a store-bought Italian or balsamic dressing can be used as an alternative to the homemade version.

This pasta salad also stores well in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prepping. If you plan to store it for several days, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much moisture and becoming soggy.

The Secret to a Delicious High-Protein Pasta Salad: The Dressing

While the combination of protein and vegetables makes this pasta salad a great choice, what truly elevates it is the homemade creamy Italian dressing. Unlike store-bought dressings that often contain preservatives, artificial ingredients, and added sugars, this dressing is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that create a fresh and tangy flavor.

Key ingredients in the dressing include:

• Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a slight tang while increasing the protein content.

• Olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that enhances the dressing’s richness.

• Apple cider vinegar: Provides a subtle acidity that balances the creamy elements.

• Garlic and herbs: Classic Italian seasonings like basil, thyme, and oregano give the dressing its signature Mediterranean flavor.

Blending these ingredients together creates a smooth, flavorful dressing that perfectly complements the pasta and fresh vegetables. It’s lighter than mayonnaise-based dressings but still provides the same creamy texture and bold taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served for various occasions, including:

• Meal Prep: Prepare a batch at the beginning of the week for a quick and healthy grab-and-go lunch.

• Summer BBQs and Potlucks: Its refreshing taste makes it an ideal side dish for outdoor gatherings.

• Post-Workout Meal: Thanks to its protein content, this dish is a great way to refuel your body after exercise.

• Family Dinners: Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced, nutrient-rich meal.

Since it can be served cold or at room temperature, it’s perfect for packed lunches, road trips, and picnic outings.

Storage and Freshness Tips

To keep this pasta salad tasting fresh, follow these storage tips:

1. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

2. Store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to maintain the best texture.

3. If the pasta seems dry after refrigeration, add a splash of olive oil or extra dressing before serving.

Conclusion

This High Protein Italian Pasta Salad is a game changer for anyone looking for a nutritious, satisfying, and easy to make meal. Unlike traditional pasta salads that may be low in protein and fiber, this recipe offers a well balanced combination of protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats, making it a smart choice for various dietary needs.

With its bold flavors, creamy dressing, and meal-prep convenience, it’s an excellent option for busy individuals, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone who loves delicious food without compromising on nutrition. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, this pasta salad is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.