Hey there, pasta lovers! Are you ready for a pasta salad that’s not only bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors but also packs a serious protein punch? This High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad is your answer! Imagine biting into a cool, refreshing salad with the satisfying chew of protein-packed rotini, the salty tang of feta, and the delightful spice of turkey pepperoni. It’s a flavor explosion in every single bite!
This recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and absolutely delicious, perfect for a weeknight meal or a potluck contribution. You’ll love the delightful combination of textures – the firm pasta, the crisp vegetables, and the creamy feta. It’s a party in your mouth! This salad is also wonderfully versatile. It’s so easy to customize to your liking, and the high protein content will keep you feeling full and satisfied. Plus, the bright, summery flavors will instantly transport you to a sunny Italian hillside (even if you’re stuck indoors!).
Get ready for a taste sensation that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying. This pasta salad is the perfect recipe for a light yet fulfilling meal. Trust me, your tastebuds (and your body) will thank you!
What You’ll Need
This recipe brings together the best of Italian flavors with a healthy twist. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious pasta salad:
- 1 (5 oz) package of turkey pepperoni: Adds a savory, salty kick and a nice protein boost.
- 1 (8 oz) box Protein or chickpea rotini pasta: The star of the show! Choose protein-packed pasta for extra nutrition.
- Fresh basil: Adds that perfect pop of herby flavor. Fresh is best!
- 1 large red bell pepper: Provides sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 medium cucumber (250 g): Adds refreshing crunch and hydration.
- 1/2 red onion (120 g): Adds a subtle bite and delicious sharpness.
- 3/4 cup Olive Garden Light Italian Dressing: The perfect tangy and zesty dressing to bring it all together.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese: Crumbles beautifully and adds a salty, tangy flavor.
- 4 slices ultra-thin provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! This high-protein pasta salad comes together in a snap. Follow these simple steps for a delicious and satisfying meal:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente is key for the best texture in a pasta salad.
- Prep the veggies: While the pasta is cooking, chop the red bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Roughly chop the fresh basil leaves. Tip: For a more even cook, try to keep your vegetable pieces roughly the same size.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and basil. Add the sliced turkey pepperoni. Tip: If using pre-sliced pepperoni, you can skip this step and just add it to the salad directly.
- Add the cheese: Crumble the feta cheese over the pasta mixture. Arrange the ultra-thin provolone slices on top. Tip: For a more intense feta flavor, allow the cheese to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before adding it to the salad.
- Dress it up: Pour the Olive Garden Light Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Tip: Start with less dressing and add more if needed. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
- Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for a truly delicious salad! Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for Success
To make this High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad truly shine, here are a few extra tips to ensure success: For the best flavor, use fresh basil. Dried basil will work in a pinch, but fresh basil provides a brighter, more intense flavor. When chopping vegetables, aim for consistency in size. This will ensure even cooking and a more pleasant eating experience. Don’t overdress the salad. Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more to taste. It’s always easier to add more than to take away! If you’re short on time, you can skip the chilling step and serve the salad immediately. However, chilling allows the flavors to develop more fully. Finally, feel free to adjust the amount of any ingredient to your liking. It’s your salad – make it your own!
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations to try: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the turkey pepperoni. You could add grilled halloumi or chickpeas for extra protein and flavor. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or use spicy pepperoni. If you’re gluten-free, be sure to use gluten-free rotini pasta. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or Parmesan, or even add some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover pasta salad is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the pasta will likely become mushy upon thawing. To reheat, simply remove the desired amount from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature. You can also gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds if preferred, but be careful not to overheat it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of pasta? A: Absolutely! While rotini works well, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like farfalle, fusilli, or penne. Just make sure to choose a pasta that holds its shape well when tossed with the dressing.
Q: How long does this pasta salad last? A: This High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad is best enjoyed within 3 days of making it. After that, the quality and freshness of the ingredients may start to decline.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prepping. Make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually deepen over time.
Q: What can I substitute for the Olive Garden dressing? A: You can certainly use your favorite Italian dressing. A homemade vinaigrette would also be delicious!
The Final Word
This High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad is a true crowd-pleaser! It’s quick, easy, healthy, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. The perfect combination of textures and tastes will have you coming back for more. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and prepare to be amazed by this delicious and satisfying meal. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your photos on social media using #HighProteinItalianPastaSalad. Happy cooking!
High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad
Equipment
- Large bowl For mixing the salad
- Pot For cooking the pasta
Ingredients
Meats
- 140 g Turkey pepperoni 1 (5 oz) package
Vegetables
- 1 Basil Fresh
- 1 Bell pepper large red
- 1 Cucumber medium (250 g)
- 0.5 Red onion (120 g)
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 box Protein or chickpea rotini pasta (8 oz)
- 0.5 cup Feta cheese
- 4 slices Ultra-thin provolone cheese
Dressing
- 0.75 cup Olive Garden light Italian dressing
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- While pasta cooks, chop the bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and basil.
- Slice the provolone cheese.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, turkey pepperoni, feta cheese, and provolone cheese.
- Pour the Olive Garden light Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!