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high protein pasta salad in a large bowl, tossed to combine

High Protein Summer Pasta Salad with Lemon Pepper Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a pasta salad that actually feels like a full meal, this is it.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Serves 6 people

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad

  • 3-4 Chicken sausages
  • ¼ cup chopped roasted red pepper
  • 3/4 cup pearl mozzarella
  • 1 can chickpeas rinsed & drained
  • 1 lb small pasta I used mini farfalle
  • ¼ cup marinated artichokes chopped
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber
  • Fresh herbs I like chives, basil and dill

Lemon Pepper Vinaigrette

  • Juice and zest of 2 lemons
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove grated
  • 1 tbsp dijon mustard
  • Big pinch of salt & lots of black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your pasta. Cook according to package instructions, or until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  • While the pasta cooks, heat or grill your chicken sausages. I used the precooked ones from Trader Joe’s and gave them a quick char for extra flavour.
  • Chop up the sausages, roasted red peppers, marinated artichokes, cucumber, and fresh herbs. Add everything to the bowl along with the mozzarella pearls and chickpeas.
  • Make the vinaigrette: In a small jar or bowl, combine the lemon juice and zest, olive oil, grated garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and a generous amount of black pepper. Give it a quick whisk or shake for a more emulsified dressing.
  • Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve right away or refrigerate for later.