Description
This High Protein Greek Pasta Salad is a flavorful and nutrient-packed meal combining smoky turkey breast, creamy plant-based feta cheese, and fresh Mediterranean veggies tossed in a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing. Quick and easy to prepare, this salad is perfect for a hearty lunch, light dinner, or an elegant side dish, offering vibrant flavors and balanced nutrition that keeps you energized and satisfied.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
Protein and Cheese
- 1 cup smoked turkey breast, thinly sliced or cubed
- 1/2 cup plant-based feta cheese, crumbled or cubed
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed (natural)
- 1/4 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta and Veggies: Cook the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and prevent sticking. While the pasta cooks, wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, kalamata olives, red onion, parsley, and oregano into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the Smoked Turkey and Plant-Based Cheese: Cut the smoked turkey breast into thin strips or small cubes. Crumble or cube the plant-based feta cheese evenly to distribute throughout the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar (natural), extra virgin olive oil, crushed garlic (natural), salt, pepper, and the natural gelling agent until the dressing thickens slightly and emulsifies smoothly.
- Combine All Ingredients: Place the cooled pasta, chopped veggies, smoked turkey, and plant-based cheese into a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over and gently toss everything together, ensuring each bite is well coated with flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld perfectly. Serve cold or at room temperature for best taste.
Notes
- Use al dente pasta to maintain texture after chilling.
- Keep veggies and cheese chilled before combining to retain freshness.
- Adjust vinegar and olive oil ratio to achieve your preferred tanginess.
- Use fresh parsley and oregano for authentic brightness.
- Allow salad to rest in the fridge so flavors blend harmoniously.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Greek pasta salad, high protein salad, Mediterranean salad, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey salad, healthy pasta salad, meal prep salad