Macro Friendly Pasta Salad
A deliciously balanced macro friendly pasta salad that is high in protein and perfect for fitness meal prep.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot for boiling pasta
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
- 1 Colander for draining pasta
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 2 cups grilled chicken breast diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1 can 15 oz chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and chickpeas.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh herbs for added flavor. Ingredient Substitutions: Try tofu for a vegetarian option. How to Serve: Perfect for meal preps. Storage & Freshness: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare all components ahead and combine before serving.