Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. Keep the dressing separate if you will store it longer than a day.

Can I use a different dressing?

Absolutely. A basil vinaigrette or a light red wine vinaigrette works well. Taste as you go and adjust salt and acid.

Is this salad kid friendly?

Yes. Kids love the pasta shape and the little bites of meat. Chop ingredients small and offer a fork and a spoon for easy scooping.

How much does this serve?

The recipe as written typically serves 4 to 6 as a main or 6 to 8 as a side. It really depends on appetites and what else is on the table.

What can I swap for feta if someone does not like it?

Soft goat cheese or small cubes of mozzarella work well. You can also omit it and add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before serving.

High Protein Italian Pasta Salad 2026

Name: High Protein Italian Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 (8 oz) box of protein or chickpea rotini pasta; 3/4 cup of Olive Garden light Italian dressing; 1/2 red onion, chopped; 1 large bell pepper, chopped; 1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced; 1 (8 oz) package of smoked deli ham, chopped; 1 (5 oz) package of turkey pepperoni, chopped; 5 oz of light Italian dry salami, chopped; 4 slices of ultra-thin provolone cheese, chopped; 1/2 cup of feta cheese; Fresh basil, optional

Description

A hearty and colorful pasta salad featuring chickpea rotini, smoked ham, pepperoni, and a tangy Italian dressing, perfect for busy families and potlucks.

Ingredients

1 (8 oz) box of protein or chickpea rotini pasta
3/4 cup of Olive Garden light Italian dressing
1/2 red onion, chopped
1 large bell pepper, chopped
1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced
1 (8 oz) package of smoked deli ham, chopped
1 (5 oz) package of turkey pepperoni, chopped
5 oz of light Italian dry salami, chopped
4 slices of ultra-thin provolone cheese, chopped
1/2 cup of feta cheese
Fresh basil, optional

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Instructions

Cook the chickpea or protein pasta according to package directions, salting the water generously. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Chop the red onion, bell pepper, and cucumber into small pieces.
Slice the smoked deli ham, turkey pepperoni, Italian dry salami, and provolone cheese into bite-sized pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Add the feta cheese and crumble it gently.
Drizzle the light Italian dressing over the ingredients and toss everything together.
Add fresh basil if using, and let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra brightness, use fresh basil; if unavailable, dried oregano works as well. Make sure to chop ingredients uniformly for balanced bites.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Chilling
Cuisine: Italian