Greek Pasta Salad Packed with Protein and Fresh Veggies
protein-packed Greek-inspired pasta salad with chickpeas, feta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette, perfect for cold meals or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
8 ounces whole wheat or high-protein rotini pasta, 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1 cup cucumber diced, 1/2 cup red bell pepper diced, 1/2 cup chickpeas drained, 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped, 1/4 cup Kalamata olives sliced, 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped oregano, 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 clove garlic minced, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, Optional: 1 cup grilled chicken diced
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and rinse under cold water. 2. Prepare vegetables: halve tomatoes, dice cucumber and bell pepper, chop onion, slice olives, rinse chickpeas. 3. Whisk dressing: olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, pepper. 4. Combine pasta, vegetables, chickpeas, and optional chicken. 5. Pour dressing over and toss gently. 6. Fold in feta and herbs. 7. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Adjust vegetables or protein as desired. Store in airtight container up to 3 days. Avoid freezing.