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–+ servings
Bella

Herby Spring Pasta Salad with Protein: A Fresh Delight!

A refreshing and nutritious Herby Spring Pasta Salad packed with protein, perfect for a light meal or side dish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 1 cup bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup fresh spinach chopped
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast diced (or chickpeas for a vegetarian option)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, spinach, red onion, feta cheese, and cooked chicken (or chickpeas).
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  5. Fold in the fresh parsley and basil, mixing until well distributed.
  6. Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3g

Notes

  • For added crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.
  • Substitute the feta cheese with mozzarella balls for a different flavor profile.

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