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High Protein Pasta Salad for Easy Lunches

High Protein Pasta Salad Recipe

Allan
This High Protein Pasta Salad for Easy Lunches combines tender chicken, protein-packed pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing into one satisfying meal. With 35 grams of protein per serving, it's perfect for meal prep, post-workout recovery, and keeping hunger under control during busy days. Fresh flavors and balanced nutrition make this a recipe you'll want to keep on repeat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American, High Protein
Servings 6
Calories 425 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces high-protein pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast diced
  • ¾ cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • ½ cup red bell pepper diced
  • ¼ cup red onion chopped
  • ½ cup reduced-fat mozzarella pearls
  • 2 tablespoons parsley chopped

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the high-protein pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it quickly. Set aside to drain completely.
  • If the chicken is not already cooked, season the chicken breast lightly with salt and pepper and cook it using your preferred method until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Allow the chicken to rest for 5–10 minutes before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a medium bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
  • Wash and prepare all vegetables by halving the cherry tomatoes, dicing the cucumber and bell pepper, finely chopping the red onion, and chopping the fresh parsley.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, mozzarella pearls, and parsley.
  • Pour the prepared Greek yogurt dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, which can break down the pasta and vegetables.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and improve the overall taste.
  • Before serving, stir the salad gently and add a splash of lemon juice or a spoonful of Greek yogurt if needed to refresh the dressing consistency.
  • Divide into individual portions and serve chilled as a satisfying lunch, post-workout meal, or easy meal-prep option throughout the week.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, stirring before each serving.