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Classic High Protein Italian Pasta Salad

Classic High Protein Italian Pasta Salad for Vibrant Flavor

This Classic High Protein Italian Pasta Salad is a colorful, nutritious dish packed with protein-rich ingredients, perfect for meal prep and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Barilla Protein+ pasta whole wheat pasta is a great alternative for extra fiber
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Ken's Steak House Italian Dressing can make homemade for a healthier choice
For the Vegetables
  • 1 Red Onion diced into 1/4-inch pieces
  • 1 Bell Pepper finely chopped
  • 1 Cucumber peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch chunks
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
  • Fresh Basil a handful for garnish
For the Proteins
  • 8 oz Deli Ham cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 5 oz Pepperoni adds spiciness
  • 5 oz Salami provides savory depth
For the Cheese
  • 4 slices Provolone Cheese cut into 1/2-inch squares
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese adds a salty kick

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Cutting board
  • Bowl
  • salad tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add 8 oz of pasta, and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
  2. Prepare the Meats and Cheese: Dice deli ham, salami, and pepperoni, and cut provolone cheese into squares.
  3. Drain and Rinse the Pasta: Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  4. Chop the Fresh Vegetables: Dice red onion, chop bell pepper, peel and cut cucumber, and halve cherry tomatoes.
  5. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, diced meats, provolone, and feta.
  6. Dress the Salad: Pour dressing over ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Chill the Salad: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours to let flavors meld.
  8. Final Toss Before Serving: Toss again before serving and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 24gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, allow flavors to meld by chilling the salad before serving. Customize with different veggies or proteins as desired.

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