Can I make High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad the night before?

Yes, and it is honestly better the next day. Just save a little dressing to refresh it before serving.

What is the best protein to use if I do not eat pork?

Turkey pepperoni and deli turkey or chicken work great. You can also use grilled chicken or canned tuna if that fits your vibe.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?

Drain it well, toss it with a tiny splash of olive oil, then mix with dressing while it is cool, not ice cold.

Can I freeze this pasta salad?

I would not. The veggies get soft and watery after thawing, and the pasta texture changes.

How long can it sit out at a picnic?

Try to keep it chilled and do not let it sit out more than 2 hours, less if it is super hot outside.

Delicious High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad

Name: High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz High-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or protein-plus) (Cook until just tender, rinse with cool water.); 4 oz Lean deli-style proteins (turkey pepperoni, salami, or ham) (Chop into bite-size pieces.); 1 cup Cherry tomatoes (For sweetness.); 1 cup Cucumber (For crunch.); 1 cup Bell pepper (For a clean, fresh taste.); 1/4 cup Red onion (Slice thinly.); 1/2 cup Olives or pepperoncini (For extra flavor.); 1 cup Mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta (Add richness; add before serving if meal prepping.); 1/4 cup Olive oil; 2 tbsp Red wine vinegar (or lemon juice); 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp Garlic powder; to taste Salt and pepper; 1 tsp Sweetener or honey (optional) (Use if the vinegar feels too sharp.); 1 tbsp Plain Greek yogurt (optional) (For creaminess and extra protein.)

Description

A cold, zesty pasta salad packed with protein, perfect for meal prep and hot summer days.

Ingredients

Pasta

8 oz High-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or protein-plus) (Cook until just tender, rinse with cool water.)

Protein

4 oz Lean deli-style proteins (turkey pepperoni, salami, or ham) (Chop into bite-size pieces.)

Vegetables

1 cup Cherry tomatoes (For sweetness.)
1 cup Cucumber (For crunch.)
1 cup Bell pepper (For a clean, fresh taste.)
1/4 cup Red onion (Slice thinly.)

Briny Add-ins

1/2 cup Olives or pepperoncini (For extra flavor.)

Cheese

1 cup Mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta (Add richness; add before serving if meal prepping.)

Dressing

1/4 cup Olive oil
2 tbsp Red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp Garlic powder
to taste Salt and pepper
1 tsp Sweetener or honey (optional) (Use if the vinegar feels too sharp.)
1 tbsp Plain Greek yogurt (optional) (For creaminess and extra protein.)

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Instructions

Preparation

Cook your high-protein pasta until just tender, then rinse quickly with cool water and drain well.
Chop your veggies and proteins into bite-size pieces.
In a big bowl, toss together the pasta, meats, veggies, and cheese.
Pour dressing over and mix well.
Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, extra vinegar, or extra herbs as desired.
Chill for at least 20 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Notes

Delicious as a meal prep option; store in an airtight container for freshness. Refresh with extra dressing if it dries out.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Italian