Protein Pasta Salad That Satisfies: Flavorful, High-Protein & Simple to Make

BY Ethan Cooper June 28, 2025

protein pasta salad with chickpeas and cheese in bowl

If you think pasta salad can’t be filling, this protein pasta salad will change your mind. Packed with chickpeas, mozzarella, and parmesan, it delivers around 28 grams of protein per serving — no meat required. It’s great cold or at room temp, making it perfect for meal prep or casual get-togethers. We’ll show you how to make it taste amazing and stay satisfying. Plus, we’ll cover the best protein add-ins and flavor tips for your next bowl.

Table of Contents

A Fresh Take on Pasta Salad

A satisfying twist on a classic

Ethan Cooper is a creative recipe developer with a love for experimenting with classic and modern pasta flavors. He enjoys turning everyday ingredients into hearty, satisfying meals that bring people together around the table.

This protein pasta salad started with a simple idea: turn a light side dish into a full, balanced meal. The result? A delicious combination of chickpeas, juicy cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, parmesan, and crisp cucumbers tossed in a bold red wine vinaigrette. It’s simple to prep, easy to love, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or your weekly meal prep.

If you enjoy creamy comfort pasta, don’t miss this boursin cheese pasta recipe or the bold jerk chicken rasta pasta both packed with easy flavor.

Why this protein pasta salad works

This isn’t just your usual veggie-loaded bowl. With chickpeas offering over 20 grams of plant-based protein per can, and cheese adding both protein and richness, this protein pasta salad delivers true staying power. Even the pasta contributes a helpful protein boost.

It’s also a perfect cold meal option. The balance of creamy cheese, crisp veggies, and herby vinaigrette means every bite is bright and satisfying. Whether you’re eating it for lunch or prepping ahead, this protein pasta salad brings real flavor and fullness to the table.

Building Blocks of a Protein-Packed Pasta Salad

The best proteins to include

When creating a protein pasta salad, the magic is in the combination. While traditional pasta has modest protein (around 7 grams per cup), adding the right ingredients takes it to a whole new level. This recipe uses chickpeas, parmesan, and mozzarella to pack in protein without relying on meat. One can of chickpeas alone adds about 21 grams, while a cup of grated parmesan brings nearly 40 grams of protein. Add in mozzarella pearls and you’re well on your way to a meal that satisfies.

These ingredients not only add protein, they also contribute great texture and flavor. The chickpeas offer a hearty, nutty bite that balances beautifully with the creamy mozzarella. Meanwhile, the sharpness of fresh parmesan cuts through the richness and ties everything together.

If you’re into high-protein pasta dishes, check out our creamy broccoli pasta for another meal that’s rich, filling, and simple to prepare.

What else makes this salad stand out

It’s not just about the protein. A big part of why this pasta salad works is the colorful, crunchy mix-ins. You’ve got sweet cherry tomatoes, sliced mini cucumbers, crisp bell pepper, and a handful of pepperoncini for a subtle kick. Kalamata olives bring in briny depth, while chopped basil and parsley freshen up every bite.

The salad is tossed with a bold red wine vinaigrette made with extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced shallot, honey, and oregano. This blend coats the ingredients perfectly without overpowering them. Every forkful is balanced — creamy, tangy, and full of texture.

If you enjoy bold salads, our boursin pasta is another crowd favorite, featuring creamy cheese and savory flavors in every bite.

How to Make This Easy Protein Pasta Salad

Ingredients

Pasta Salad

1 lb fusilli pasta
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 mini cucumbers, halved and thinly sliced (or ½ English cucumber)
1 bell pepper, chopped
½ cup pepperoncini, sliced
1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
1 cup mozzarella pearls, drained
½ cup fresh herbs, chopped (basil and parsley recommended)
½ cup kalamata olives, sliced

Pasta Salad Dressing

½ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup red wine vinegar
1 tbsp shallot, minced
1 tbsp honey
½ tbsp Dijon mustard
1 ½ tsp coarse Kosher salt (or 1 tsp fine salt)
1 tsp dried oregano
Several grinds of black pepper
Handful of fresh herbs, finely chopped

protein pasta salad ingredients laid out flat

If you love cold pasta dishes with creamy texture and bite, you might also like our pesto tortellini pasta salad — it’s simple, fresh, and packed with flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fusilli until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Let it cool for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Prep the Vegetables and Herbs
While the pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumbers, chop the bell pepper, pepperoncini, and fresh herbs, and slice the olives.
Make the Dressing
Add all dressing ingredients to a small blender and blend until smooth. Alternatively, whisk them in a bowl until well combined.
Combine Everything
Add chickpeas, chopped vegetables, grated parmesan, mozzarella, olives, and fresh herbs to the cooled pasta.
Toss and Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad. Use large salad spoons to toss until everything is evenly coated.
Chill or Serve Immediately
Enjoy immediately at room temperature or chill in the fridge for later. It’s even better the next day!

This protein pasta salad stays fresh for up to 5 days, making it ideal for prepping ahead. If you enjoy meal-prep-friendly recipes, check out our mexican macaroni salad — it’s vibrant, protein-rich, and holds up well in the fridge.

Tips, Variations & FAQ for the Best Protein Pasta Salad

Storage and meal prep tips

This protein pasta salad is one of those rare meals that tastes better the next day. The flavors deepen, and the vinaigrette soaks into the pasta and chickpeas beautifully. To store:

Use an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
For grab-and-go lunches, portion the salad into glass jars or single-serve containers.
If making ahead for guests, give the salad a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Avoid freezing, as the texture of fresh vegetables and cheese doesn’t hold up well after thawing.

For another prep-friendly option with bold flavor, try this creamy and cozy creamy beef and bowtie pasta that reheats like a dream.

Variations you can try

While this recipe is perfect as-is, here are some easy swaps or additions you can make based on what’s in your kitchen:

Add protein pasta: Swap standard fusilli with lentil or chickpea-based pasta for even more protein.
Boost with greens: Toss in spinach, arugula, or kale for added fiber and volume.
Try different cheeses: Crumbled feta or cubed cheddar can be used instead of mozzarella for a sharper bite.
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños if you love heat.

And if you enjoy bold twists, our mexican street corn pasta salad is another colorful, veggie-packed favorite that works warm or chilled.

Love simple, delicious meals like our kielbasa pasta recipes? Don’t miss out!
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FAQ

What protein to put in a pasta salad?

Great protein choices include canned chickpeas, grilled chicken, tuna, beans, cheese (like parmesan or mozzarella), and even hard-boiled eggs. In this recipe, chickpeas and two types of cheese give you a hearty, vegetarian protein boost.

Is protein pasta ok for weight loss?

Yes! Protein pasta made from lentils or chickpeas can be a great option for weight loss, as it helps you stay full longer. It also supports muscle maintenance and stable energy levels throughout the day.

How can I add protein to pasta?

You can add protein to pasta by mixing in beans, lean meats, seafood, eggs, or high-protein cheeses. Even regular pasta offers some protein on its own — combine that with protein-rich toppings to build a complete meal.

Can protein pasta be used for salad?

Absolutely. Protein pasta works wonderfully in cold pasta salads. It holds up well and provides extra nutrients, making your salad even more filling and balanced.

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided in the Tasty Recipes plugin is an estimate only.For the most accurate results, please calculate the values yourself using your preferred nutrition calculator.

Protein Pasta Salad That Satisfies: Flavorful, High-Protein & Simple to Make