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High Protein Italian Pasta Salad

A vibrant, protein-packed pasta salad that's perfect for meal prep and family gatherings, combining pasta, chickpeas, mozzarella, and fresh veggies.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch, Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base Ingredients
  • 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
  • 1 each bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 each cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup olives, sliced
Dressing and Seasoning
  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse it under cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chickpeas, mozzarella, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
  3. Drizzle with Italian dressing and toss to combine.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

This salad can be served cold or at room temperature. For best flavor, let it sit overnight in the fridge. It stays fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.