High Protein Pasta Salad with Creamy Greek Yogurt Pesto
This high protein pasta salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish infused with creamy Greek yogurt pesto and packed with protein-rich ingredients.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- - Pot for boiling pasta
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 8 oz Dry Protein Pasta or any protein-enriched pasta
- 1 can Chickpeas 15 oz, rinsed thoroughly
- 1 large English Cucumber
- 1 Bell Pepper any color, chopped
- 1/2 Red Onion finely diced
- 1/4-1/2 cup Pepperoncini adjust based on spice preference
- Kosher Salt to taste
- 4 tbsp Greek Yogurt or plain yogurt
- 6 tbsp Pesto homemade or store-bought
For Serving
- Optional Toppings: Feta or Mozzarella Cheese
- Extra Veggies: Halved Cherry Tomatoes, Roasted Zucchini, or Spinach
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook the dry protein pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced cucumber, bell pepper, finely diced red onion, and pepperoncini. Sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Once the pasta has cooled, gently fold it into the bowl with the veggies and chickpeas.
- Dollop Greek yogurt and pesto on top of the salad mixture. Toss everything together until well-coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more kosher salt if necessary.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Optional Enhancements
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Notes
For more flavor, allow the salad to chill and enhance. Customize the vegetables to your liking based on seasonal availability.