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High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad for Busy Weekdays

This High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a satisfying dish packed with over 30 grams of protein per serving, perfect for busy weekdays.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 8 ounces Chickpea Pasta Can substitute with lentil pasta for high protein.
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Cook to internal temperature of 165°F.
  • 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Hidden Valley is recommended.
  • 4 slices Bacon Cook with chicken to enhance flavors.
  • 1 small Red Onion Finely diced for better texture.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved for optimal dressing adhesion.
  • 2 scallions Scallions Slice white and green parts separately.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adds smoky depth.
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Greek yogurt can be used as a protein boost.

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • large pot
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prep ingredients by dicing the red onion, slicing scallions, halving cherry tomatoes, and cutting chicken into chunks.
  2. In a mixing bowl, coat chicken with ranch seasoning.
  3. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast chicken and bacon together for about 20 minutes.
  4. Boil salted water and cook chickpea pasta according to package instructions.
  5. Whisk together ranch dressing, Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, and smoked paprika until creamy.
  6. Combine cooked pasta, roasted chicken, bacon, onion, tomatoes, and scallions in a bowl, then toss with dressing.
  7. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Best enjoyed when allowed to meld flavors overnight in the fridge.

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