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High-Protein Italian Pasta Salad

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  • Author: laloti
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant pasta salad packed with protein-rich chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and mozzarella, perfect for family gatherings.


Ingredients

  • 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup mozzarella balls or diced mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, chickpeas, olives, pepperoni, red onion, and basil.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well coated.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Notes

Let the salad chill before serving to enhance the flavors. If flavors dull after refrigeration, add a little more olive oil or vinegar.