Have you ever found yourself staring into your fridge, wondering what on earth you can make for a quick and delicious meal? I know I have – more times than I care to admit! That’s why I’ve put together a list of 15 high-protein pasta salads that are not only perfect for meal prep, but are also incredibly tasty and satisfying. From a classic high-protein Italian pasta salad to a creamy turkey pasta with peas, there’s something for everyone in this lineup. So whether you’re looking to fuel up after a workout or simply want a tasty meal to enjoy throughout the week, these pasta salads have got you covered. Let’s dive into the delicious world of high-protein pasta salads!
15 High-Protein Pasta Salads Perfect for Meal Prep
1. High Protein Italian Pasta Salad
If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious meal prep option, better try this high-protein Italian pasta salad! Packed with over 30 grams of protein per serving, thanks to turkey pepperoni, ham, salami, and protein pasta, this salad is sure to keep you satisfied. And the best part? It’s super easy to make! Just chop up your ingredients, toss them together with some Olive Garden light Italian dressing, and let it chill in the fridge for a few hours. You can customize it with your favorites veggies and cheeses, and enjoy it straight out of the fridge for a refreshing and filling meal. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and see for yourself just how delicious and satisfying a high-protein pasta salad is in Italian Style.
2. Layered Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad
This grilled chicken caprese pasta salad is everybody’s dream! Made with juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this dish is the perfect mix of flavors. Simply marinate the chicken, grill it up, cook some pasta, and layer everything together with a balsamic dressing. Whether you’re prepping this for a week of lunches or serving it up at a picnic, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your apron and get cooking.
3. Creamy Turkey Pasta with Peas
Creamy turkey pasta with peas is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for something creamy and comforting, while still keeping things light and fresh. Made with mini penne pasta, lean ground turkey, frozen peas, and a creamy white cheddar sauce, this dish is packed with protein to keep you full and energized throughout the day. To make it, simply boil the pasta, brown the turkey, add in the creamy sauce, and toss it all together for a deliciously satisfying meal. Top it off with lemon zest and fresh herbs for an extra kick of flavor. This creamy turkey pasta with peas is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your meal prep rotation.
Related: Easy High-Protein Sides: 16 Dishes to Pair with Your Favorites
4. Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe
This crunchy Asian Ramen noodle salad is my go-to for a quick, high-protein meal prep solution! With crunchy toasted ramen, crisp coleslaw mix, and nutty almonds, this Asian-inspired masterpiece combines addictive textures and flavors. The tangy dressing, infused with soy sauce and sesame oil, brings everything together. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days! To add more protein, you can add to it a chicken breast or shrimp. More details in the recipe.
5. Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad
Transform your family gatherings with this elegant yet effortless Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad! A symphony of flavors and textures, this dish combines al dente orzo, succulent smoked salmon, crunchy cucumbers and capers, all perfectly harmonized with a zesty lemon dressing. Quick, easy and irresistibly delicious, it’s perfect for warm-weather dinners, BBQs or dinner parties. Pair it with a crisp glass of white wine or rosé for the ultimate afternoon or evening experience with the fam!
6. Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad In a Jar
Calling all pasta lovers! Meet chicken bacon ranch pasta salad in a jar, the high-protein lunch of your dreams! this grab-and-go meal is not only delicious but also super convenient for meal prep. Packed with gluten-free pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a rainbow of veggies, this jar salad will keep you full and satisfied all afternoon. Simply layer the ranch dressing, veggies, chicken, bacon, and pasta in a jar, pop on the lid, and you’re ready to rock your lunch game. When you’re ready to dig in, just dump everything into a bowl, mix, and enjoy. It’s that easy! Perfect for a busy day when you need a hearty, healthy meal on the go.
Related: 15 Easy High-Protein Lunch Recipes for Meal Prep
7. Greek Chicken Pasta Salad
Craving a taste of the Mediterranean without having to book a flight? Check out this delicious Greek chicken pasta salad! packed with fresh flavors and protein, this dish is perfect for meal prep, picnics, or just a quick and easy meal. From juicy chicken seasoned with a blend of spices to a colorful mix of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, kalamata olives, and feta cheese, this salad has it all. Simply cook and dice the chicken, boil the pasta, chop up the veggies, whisk together a simple vinaigrette, and toss everything together. Voilà! you’ve got a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to brighten up your day. What are you waiting for?
8. Taco Pasta Salad
A match made in heaven: taco flavors meet pasta perfection! It’s the ultimate meal prep masterpiece, blending creamy dressing, savory taco meat, crunchy Doritos and refreshing cilantro. With sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese and avocado adding richness, this flavorful fiesta in a bowl is perfect for satisfying my cravings all week long!
9. Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad
This Buffalo Chickpea Pasta Salad is my ultimate meal prep go-to! With its spicy buffalo chickpeas, creamy green chile ranch and refreshing veggies, all tossed with al dente pasta, it’s the perfect fusion of flavors and textures. Whether I’m prepping for a BBQ or a busy week, this high-protein salad delivers!
10. Tuna Pasta Salad
Will this protein-packed tuna pasta salad become your new addiction? With colorful veggies, high-protein noodles, and quality tuna all swimming in a creamy yoghurt sauce, it’s the perfect addition to any barbecue or meal prep menu. Just boil some rotini chickpea pasta, mix up a tasty dressing with Greek yoghurt, mayo, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, then toss it all together with red onion, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, peas, cucumber, fresh dill, and of course, that delicious flaked tuna. Whether you serve it right away or let the flavors marinate in the fridge, this tasty salad is sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Related: High-Protein Desserts? Here Are 15 Easy Recipes to Keep You Full and Happy
11. Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta game with this mouthwatering Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad! Italian-seasoned grilled chicken, garlic, parmesan cheese and fresh basil meld together in perfect harmony. This effortless yet impressive recipe combines al dente spaghetti, juicy tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, making it perfect for any gathering.
12. Salmon and Broccoli Pasta
Looking for a delicious and hassle-free meal for those busy weeknights? Let me introduce you to this salmon broccoli pasta dish that will have you dream for more. Only 5 ingredients stand between you and a tasty meal: pasta, broccoli, salmon, cream cheese and mozzarella. Quick, simple, delicious! Simply bake the salmon and broccoli in the oven, cook your pasta, and combine everything with some pasta water and cheese. Craving a quick yet delicious dinner? Give this salmon broccoli pasta recipe a try – your family will thank you!
13. Chicken Club Pasta Salad
Get ready for a flavor explosion! This Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a quick, easy and ridiculously delicious mashup of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, savory cheddar, fresh tomatoes and creamy ranch dressing, all tied together with perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks or any time you need a tasty treat.
14. Crab Pasta Salad
I’m hooked on this Crab Pasta Salad! Packed with succulent crab, tender pasta and a burst of citrus, this protein-packed dish is perfect for meal prep. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a protein-packed meal prep masterpiece in no time. Just flake the crab, mix everything, let it chill in the fridge for a couple of hours and boom – you’re ready to dive into a bowl of pure pasta salad bliss. Serve it slightly chilled alongside your favorite grilled beef for a match made in foodie heaven.
15. Chicken Chickpea Pasta Salad
I’m obsessed with this Chicken Chickpea Pasta Salad! It’s literally the perfect meal prep solution – packed with lean protein from chicken, chickpeas and a hint of parmesan, plus complex carbs from whole-grain pasta. This satisfying salad is a flavorful mix of herbs, garlic and a zesty dressing, all ready in just 20 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Get ready to pasta-fy your meal prep! These 15 high-protein recipes are your key to nutritious, tasty meals. From the classic high-protein Italian pasta salad to the flavorful taco pasta salad, we’ve covered a wide array of delicious options to keep you satisfied and energized throughout the week. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a veggie enthusiast, there’s a high-protein pasta salad on this list that you and your family will love. So go ahead, create a batch of creamy turkey pasta with peas or indulge in some creamy broccoli pasta – all made in just one pot! Don’t forget to give the grilled paneer salad a try for a vegetarian twist on your high-protein salad game.
