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High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad That's Comfort in a Bowl

Enjoy this High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, a filling dish boasting over 30 grams of protein per serving, perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Chickpea Pasta Can substitute with lentil or edamame pasta
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast Can substitute with grilled tofu
  • 4 slices Bacon Can use turkey bacon or plant-based alternative
  • 1 small Red Onion Finely diced
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved lengthwise
  • 2 stalks Scallions Use both white and green parts
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Store-bought or homemade
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Can substitute with sour cream
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika works too

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large Pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Gather your baking sheets and preparation tools.
  2. Prep your vegetables: finely dice the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the scallions.
  3. Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces, season with ranch seasoning, and spread on a baking sheet with onion and bacon.
  4. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and bacon is crispy.
  5. In a large pot of salted water, cook the chickpea pasta for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain (do not rinse).
  6. Whisk together ranch dressing, Greek yogurt, additional ranch seasoning, and smoked paprika in a bowl.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine chickpea pasta, roasted chicken, bacon, onions, cherry tomatoes, and scallions. Toss with dressing.
  8. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for meal prep. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Keep an eye on the pasta while cooking to avoid mushiness. Adjust seasoning according to taste before serving.

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