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High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad for Flavorful Meal Prep

This High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad offers a delicious twist on a classic, packing over 30 grams of protein per serving.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Chickpea Pasta Provides structure and is packed with protein
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Cooked to 165°F for juiciness
  • 4 slices Bacon Cooks alongside the chicken
  • 1 medium Red Onion Finely diced for better incorporation
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved to catch the dressing
  • 4 scallions Scallions Save dark green parts for garnish
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Creamy base for the salad
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Boosts protein content
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adds subtle smokiness
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Optional but recommended

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • large pot
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Finely dice the red onion and halve the cherry tomatoes. Slice the scallions and reserve the dark green tops.
  3. Arrange seasoned chicken pieces, bacon strips, and diced red onion on a baking sheet.
  4. Roast for approximately 20 minutes until chicken is cooked to 165°F and bacon is crispy.
  5. Boil salted water and cook chickpea pasta according to package instructions, around 7-10 minutes.
  6. Whisk together ranch dressing, Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, and smoked paprika until smooth.
  7. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted chicken, bacon, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and scallions.
  8. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat.
  9. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to three days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 32gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 8gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and substitute with extra veggies or canned beans.

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