High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad
This High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad is a flavorful and satisfying meal designed to provide both nutrition and taste in abundance. Packed with grilled chicken, savory Genoa salami, creamy mozzarella pearls, and fresh vegetables, this dish is tossed in a zesty vinaigrette that elevates its classic Italian flavors. Perfect as a meal prep solution, it’s ideal for busy weekdays, summer barbecues, or any occasion where a hearty salad is desired.
Ingredients
- •12 oz Rotini Pasta (or another short pasta like fusilli or penne)
- •1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
- •1 cup Cucumber (diced)
- •0.5 cup Red Onion (thinly sliced)
- •0.5 cup Black Olives (sliced)
- •1.5 cups Grilled Chicken Breast (cooked and diced)
- •4 oz Genoa Salami (sliced or cubed)
- •8 oz Mozzarella Pearls
- •0.5 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- •0.25 cup Red Wine Vinegar
- •1 tsp Dried Oregano
- •0.5 tsp Garlic Powder
- •0.5 tsp Salt (to taste)
- •0.25 tsp Black Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- 1
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions for al dente.
- 2
Drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely.
- 3
While the pasta cooks, prepare the vinaigrette.
- 4
In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- 5
Whisk or shake until well emulsified.
- 6
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced grilled chicken, salami, mozzarella pearls, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and sliced black olives.
- 7
Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad.
- 8
Toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- 9
For best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
- 10
Serve chilled.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
580
