High Protein Pasta Salad – The Best Healthy, Flavor-Packed Meal Prep Recipe
This High Protein Pasta Salad is a fresh, creamy, and satisfying meal made with protein pasta, chickpeas, crisp vegetables, Greek yogurt, and pesto. It’s perfect for meal prep, healthy lunches, potlucks, or as a protein-packed side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 oz protein pasta (Goodles, Barilla Protein+, or Banza)
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 large English cucumber, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1/2 red onion, finely diced
1/4 to 1/2 cup pepperoncini, finely diced
1 heavy pinch kosher salt
4 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (0% or your preferred variety)
6 tablespoons basil pesto
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the protein pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse briefly under cool water. Let it cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, chopped cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, pepperoncini, and kosher salt.
4. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl.
5. Spoon the Greek yogurt and pesto over the pasta and vegetables.
6. Toss everything gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if needed.
8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
9. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming soft.
Chill before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or turkey for even more protein.
Fresh basil or grated Parmesan makes an excellent garnish.
Do not freeze, as the vegetables may lose their texture after thawing.