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High Protein Greek Pasta Salad

High Protein Greek Pasta Salad

  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

The High Protein Greek Pasta Salad is a vibrant and nutrient-packed dish that combines tender pasta with savory smoked turkey slices and creamy plant-based cheese. Featuring fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy, natural dressing, this salad is perfect for quick lunches, easy dinners, or meal prep. It offers a balanced combination of wholesome carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats for a satisfying, flavorful experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

  • 200g cooked short pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
  • 150g smoked turkey slices, torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 100g plant-based cheese (crumbled)

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 150g cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 80g Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 30g fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (natural)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (natural)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Optional

  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
  2. Chop the Fresh Ingredients: While the pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, slice the Kalamata olives, thinly slice the red onion, and finely chop the fresh parsley.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until fully combined and slightly thickened.
  4. Combine Salad Components: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, smoked turkey pieces, plant-based cheese crumbles, and all the chopped vegetables. Pour the dressing over and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For a firmer texture, stir in the natural gelling agent before chilling. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Aim for al dente pasta to keep the salad from becoming mushy.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley for the best aroma and flavor.
  • Add dressing just before serving to maintain crunch and freshness.
  • Rinse pasta with cold water to cool and keep salad fresh.
  • Experiment with proteins such as grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas as alternatives.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No cooking
  • Cuisine: Greek-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 250g)
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: high protein, Greek pasta salad, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey, healthy salad, quick meal, meal prep, gluten free

Find it online: https://familycookspot.com/high-protein-greek-pasta-salad/