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High Protein Greek Pasta Salad

High Protein Greek Pasta Salad

  • Author: Kevin
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: High Protein, Plant-Based Option Available

Description

A vibrant and nutritious High Protein Greek Pasta Salad combining plant-based feta, fresh crunchy vegetables, and smoky turkey bacon. This Mediterranean-inspired salad is perfect for lunch, light dinners, or potluck gatherings, delivering a satisfying protein boost with fresh, colorful ingredients and a zesty natural dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

  • 2 cups rotini pasta
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, diced
  • 1/2 cup plant-based feta (plant-based)

Vegetables

  • 1 medium cucumber, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced

Dressing & Seasoning

  • 3 tbsp olive oil (natural)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (natural)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (natural)
  • 1 tsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (natural)
  • 1 tsp dried basil (natural)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add rotini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
  2. Prepare the Bacon and Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, dice the smoked turkey bacon and cook it in a pan over medium heat until crisp. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat. Chop cucumbers, halve cherry tomatoes, dice the red bell pepper and onion, and slice the Kalamata olives to prepare fresh vegetables.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil (natural), lemon juice (natural), minced garlic (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), dried oregano (natural), dried basil (natural), salt, and pepper to create a vibrant dressing that complements the salad’s flavors.
  4. Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, smoked turkey bacon, chopped vegetables, olives, and plant-based feta. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Chill and Serve: Place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste experience.

Notes

  • Cook pasta perfectly; avoid overcooking to keep firmness and prevent mushiness.
  • Drain pasta well after rinsing to prevent a soggy salad.
  • Use fresh oregano and basil herbs for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
  • Toss salad gently to keep vegetables crisp and plant-based feta intact.
  • Allow the salad to chill for optimal flavor melding; add delicate ingredients like plant-based feta last minute if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Boiling and sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Greek pasta salad, high protein salad, Mediterranean salad, plant-based feta, turkey bacon salad, healthy pasta salad, meal prep salad

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