High-Protein Pasta Salad with Chickpea Pasta & Mozzarella

High-Protein Pasta Salad with Chickpea Pasta & Mozzarella makes me think of the time I needed a quick lunch before a big afternoon hike because I wanted something filling yet light, something that would keep me energized without weighing me down so I decided to toss chickpea pasta with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh spinach and what I ended up with was a colorful, protein-packed bowl that I devoured on my porch while tying my hiking boots and feeling so proud of how satisfying and delicious it was. I still remember how I felt strong and energized all afternoon thanks to this simple yet hearty salad.

Ever since that pre-hike lunch, this pasta salad has become one of my favorite go-to meals because the chickpea pasta adds extra protein and fiber and the mozzarella brings a rich, creamy bite and the cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness while the fresh spinach keeps everything bright and fresh and the lemony dressing ties it all together beautifully and I love how it’s quick to make and even quicker to disappear once served.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Chickpea pasta – High in protein and fiber, it makes the salad more nutritious and satisfying.
• Cherry tomatoes – Juicy and sweet, they add a fresh pop of flavor.
• Fresh mozzarella balls – Soft and creamy, they bring richness to each bite.
• Baby spinach – Adds a crisp, fresh element and beautiful color.
• Fresh parsley – Bright and herby, it enhances the overall freshness.
• Lemon juice – Adds a tangy, zesty touch to the dressing.
• Olive oil – Helps coat the ingredients and adds smoothness.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential to bring out all the flavors.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – To cook the chickpea pasta until perfectly al dente.
• Colander – For draining the pasta efficiently.
• Large mixing bowl – To combine all the ingredients easily.
• Sharp knife – For slicing tomatoes and chopping herbs.
• Cutting board – To keep everything neat while prepping.
• Whisk – To mix the lemony dressing smoothly.
• Salad tongs or large spoon – To toss the salad gently without crushing the delicate ingredients.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the chickpea pasta until al dente so it keeps a good bite and holds up in the salad.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, I halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the fresh parsley so they’re ready to toss in.

Step 3

Once the pasta is done, I drain it and rinse it briefly under cool water to stop the cooking and keep it from sticking together.

Step 4

In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create a light, zesty dressing.

Step 5

I add the cooled chickpea pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, baby spinach, and chopped parsley into the bowl.

Step 6

Then, I toss everything gently until each piece is coated in the dressing and the ingredients are nicely mixed.

Step 7

Finally, I taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if needed before serving fresh or chilling it for later.

Tips

If you want an extra protein boost, I recommend adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or add chopped avocado for more creaminess. I sometimes like to add toasted pine nuts or seeds for extra crunch and flavor. And if you’re meal prepping, this salad holds up beautifully for a couple of days in the fridge.

Ways to Serve

I love serving this High-Protein Pasta Salad with Chickpea Pasta & Mozzarella as a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner. It’s also perfect to bring to picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish at summer barbecues. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a soup or grilled veggies for a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make High-Protein Pasta Salad with Chickpea Pasta & Mozzarella ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together.

Is chickpea pasta good for High-Protein Pasta Salad with Chickpea Pasta & Mozzarella?

Definitely! It’s high in protein and fiber, making the salad more filling and nutritious.

Can I swap the mozzarella in High-Protein Pasta Salad with Chickpea Pasta & Mozzarella?

Yes! You can use feta or cubed cheddar if you prefer a different flavor and texture.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this High-Protein Pasta Salad with Chickpea Pasta & Mozzarella a try! It’s one of my favorite ways to enjoy a hearty yet fresh meal, and I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Please share your photos or your own twist on it! And if you love this recipe, save it for your next busy day or outdoor adventure.

Happy Cooking!

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