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Easy High Protein Italian Pasta Salad Meal Prep


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  • Author: Penny Smith
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings

Description

A fresh and satisfying Italian-style pasta salad designed for easy meal prep, packed with lean protein, crisp vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing.


Ingredients

  • Short pasta (340 g / 12 oz, dry)

  • Cooked chicken breast, diced (450 g / 1 lb)

  • Cherry tomatoes, halved (300 g / 10.5 oz)

  • Cucumber, diced (200 g / 7 oz)

  • Red bell pepper, chopped (150 g / 5 oz)

  • Red onion, thinly sliced (60 g / 2 oz)

  • Fresh mozzarella pearls (200 g / 7 oz)

  • Extra virgin olive oil (80 ml / ⅓ cup)

  • Apple cider vinegar (60 ml / ¼ cup)

  • Dijon mustard (1 tbsp / 15 g)

  • Garlic, minced (2 cloves)

  • Dried oregano (1 tsp / 1 g)

  • Dried basil (1 tsp / 1 g)

  • Salt (½ tsp / 3 g)

  • Black pepper (½ tsp / 1 g)


Instructions

  • Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and cool.

  • Prepare chicken and vegetables and place them in a large bowl.

  • Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

  • Add pasta and mozzarella to the bowl, pour dressing over, and toss gently.

  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Store in airtight containers for up to four days.

  • Add a drizzle of olive oil before serving if the salad absorbs too much dressing.

  • Customize vegetables or pasta type based on preference.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes