Protein Packed Pasta Salad
Summertime isn’t the only time for pasta salad—it’s one of my favorite sides on the boat in the summer, so I turned it into a high-protein version that’s perfect year-round! This hearty pasta salad is packed with tri-color rotini, fresh veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, plus sharp cheddar, mozzarella pearls, and hard salami. Tossed in a tangy dressing with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, it’s a filling and delicious dish that can easily be enjoyed as a weekday lunch or a light dinner.
I often will add grilled chicken for more protein and serve it over a bed of spring mix tossed in that delicious dressing for even more greens!
Protein Packed Pasta Salad
This hearty pasta salad is packed with tri-color rotini, fresh veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, plus sharp cheddar, mozzarella pearls, and hard salami. Tossed in a tangy dressing with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, it’s a filling and delicious dish that can easily be enjoyed as a weekday lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 1 lb tri color rotini
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper chopped
- 1 orange bell pepper chopped
- 1 red onion chopped
- 1 large carrot chopped
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese cubed
- ½ cup hard salami chopped
- ½ cup mozzarella pearls
- Balsamic glaze
For the dressing:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 2½ tsp honey
- 1 shallot minced
- 1 tsp cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Boil your pasta until cooked, strain and rise with cold water & pat dry. Place in a large bowl.
- Finely chop all vegetables & add to bowl, add chopped salami & cheeses
- Combine dressing ingredients in a sealable jar and shake vigorously to emulsify. Top with Parmesan cheese, dressing + balsalmic glaze. Add additonal proteins if desired.
Notes
I always add grilled chicken for an extra pack of protein & enjoy it on a bed of spring mix!
Made this before? Leave a comment below!
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