The sun is shining, birds are chirping, and you can almost hear the flowers blooming. What better way to welcome spring than with a bowl of Herby Spring Pasta Salad With Protein? This dish bursts with fresh flavors and delightful textures that dance on your palate like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show. You’ll find a symphony of ingredients that harmonize beautifully together—like a perfectly tuned orchestra or your grandma’s old record player struggling but still hitting all the right notes.

this recipe

Now let me take you down memory lane. Picture this: it’s a warm Saturday afternoon, and I’m hosting the neighborhood potluck. Plates are piled high with everything from lasagna to questionable Jell-O salads (you know the ones). Amidst the culinary chaos, my Herby Spring Pasta Salad With Protein steals the show! Friends and family flock around it like it’s the last slice of pizza at a party. This dish is not just food—it’s an experience waiting to unfold.

I once had my friend Becky taste this dish at our annual picnic. She took one bite and declared her love for all things pasta salad—and who am I to argue?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use your favorite shape; I recommend fusilli or penne for their ability to hold onto dressing.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe ones that burst in your mouth like tiny flavor bombs.
• Cucumber: Adds crunch; go for English cucumbers since they have fewer seeds.
• Red Onion: For a touch of zing; soak it in cold water first if you want to mellow its pungency.
• Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley work wonders here; use them generously for maximum freshness.
• Protein (Chickpeas or Grilled Chicken): Choose chickpeas for a vegetarian option or grilled chicken for extra heartiness.
• Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best; it brightens everything up!
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all these flavors together.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.

Prepare the Veggies: While the pasta cools, chop cherry tomatoes in halves and dice cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Slice red onion thinly; remember that tears are optional but recommended only if you’re feeling dramatic.

Mix It All Up: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with chopped veggies and herbs. Toss gently so everything gets acquainted without causing drama.

Add Your Protein: Fold in chickpeas or diced grilled chicken gently into the mixture. Ensure each bite has some protein goodness.

Drizzle & Season: Pour olive oil over your creation along with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss again until everything is evenly coated in this zesty dressing.

Chill & Serve!: Allow your Herby Spring Pasta Salad With Protein to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps all those flavors mingle together beautifully!

This recipe is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about feeding your soul! Each bite of this Herby Spring Pasta Salad With Protein will remind you of sunny days ahead—even if it’s raining outside! Enjoy creating this delightful dish as much as savoring every forkful—bon appétit!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your pasta al dente while prepping your veggies and protein. This ensures everything is hot and fresh when mixed together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or proteins like chickpeas or shrimp for added flavor and nutrition. Let your creativity shine!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, serve cold or at room temperature.

This dish reminds me of a sunny picnic with friends who couldn’t stop raving about it. Their smiles were as bright as the colors in the salad!

FAQ

What proteins work best in this herby spring pasta salad with protein?

Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp all add delicious protein options.

Can I make this herby spring pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours.

What should I do if I have leftover pasta?

Mix it with fresh vegetables and dressing for a quick and tasty lunch!

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Herby Spring Pasta Salad With Protein

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Herby Spring Pasta Salad with Protein is a vibrant, nutritious dish that celebrates spring flavors. Packed with fresh ingredients and protein, it’s perfect for lunches, picnics, or gatherings.

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Ingredients

• Fusilli or penne pasta
• Cherry tomatoes
• English cucumber
• Red onion
• Fresh basil and parsley
• Chickpeas or grilled chicken
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Chop cherry tomatoes in halves, dice cucumber, and slice red onion.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with chopped veggies and herbs.
4. Gently fold in chickpeas or diced grilled chicken for added protein.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
6. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling/Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Customize with seasonal vegetables or proteins like shrimp for added flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.