Description
This High Protein Pasta Salad is a nutritious and flavorful dish perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Featuring fusilli protein pasta, fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy homemade dressing, it combines healthy ingredients for a delicious, satisfying salad that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. The recipe is easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz. Fusilli Protein Pasta (Brami)
- 1 small red bell pepper, chopped (150g)
- 1/2 English cucumber, chopped (135g)
- 1.5 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (125g)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped (145g)
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
Herbs and Cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1.5 oz. fat free feta cheese, crumbled
- 2.25 oz. can of sliced black olives (drained)
Dressing
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 4 tbsp. balsamic vinegar (50g)
- 1 tbsp. dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Cook the fusilli protein pasta according to the package instructions, opting for the lesser cooking time to achieve a chewier texture that holds well in the pasta salad.
- Prepare the dressing: In a container, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Set aside.
- Mix the salad: Once the noodles are cooked and drained, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped red bell pepper, cucumber, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red onion, fresh parsley, basil, crumbled fat free feta cheese, and drained black olives. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Chill and adjust seasoning: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, taste and adjust salt, pepper, and add more dijon mustard if desired, depending on your noodle choice and flavor preference.
Notes
- For best texture, slightly undercook the pasta so it remains firm in the salad.
- Can be made a few hours ahead and stored refrigerated to enhance flavor.
- Feel free to substitute the fat free feta with regular feta or a vegan cheese alternative.
- Add more fresh herbs like oregano or mint for additional flavor variations.
- Keep the salad chilled until serving to maintain freshness.
