Description
A flavorful and nutritious high-protein Italian pasta salad packed with meats, cheese, and fresh vegetables—perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) box of protein or chickpea rotini pasta, or any shape you like
- 3/4 cup Olive Garden light Italian dressing
- 1/2 red onion, chopped into small pieces
- 1 large bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), chopped
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 (8 oz) package smoked deli ham, chopped
- 1 (5 oz) package turkey pepperoni, chopped
- 5 oz light Italian dry salami, chopped
- 4 slices ultra-thin provolone cheese, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Chop the red onion, bell pepper, and cucumber into small, even pieces.
3. Slice the smoked deli ham, turkey pepperoni, salami, and provolone into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Crumble in the feta cheese.
5. Pour the Italian dressing over the mixture and toss well to coat evenly.
6. Add fresh basil if desired, tearing or slicing it to release flavor.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
Use chickpea or protein pasta for higher protein content.
Letting the salad chill enhances flavor significantly.
You can swap meats or cheeses based on preference.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 45mg