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–+ servings
A vibrant bowl of creamy ranch protein pasta salad with fresh vegetables.

Creamy Ranch Protein Pasta Salad

This Creamy Ranch Protein Pasta Salad is an easy and tasty way to pack more protein into weekday lunches and potluck sides, featuring Greek yogurt and protein powder for creaminess without mayo.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and base ingredients

  • 8 oz whole wheat rotini pasta, or chickpea pasta for extra protein Chickpea pasta can be used for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, full-fat recommended for creamiest texture Low-fat Greek yogurt can be used to reduce calories, but texture will be less rich.
  • 1/4 cup milk, plus more if needed for consistency
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix Use reduced-sodium ranch seasoning for a lower sodium option.
  • 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder, approximately 30g Unflavored protein powder keeps ranch flavor true; vanilla can add sweetness.

Vegetables

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced, English cucumbers preferred
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped Soak in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce sharpness.
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped For a Mediterranean twist, swap parsley for dill and add feta if not dairy-free.

Seasoning

  • Salt and pepper, to taste Season lightly before chilling and adjust after.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook the rotini in well-salted water according to package directions until al dente, usually 9 to 11 minutes. Drain immediately and rinse under cold running water for about 30 seconds.
  • Let drain in the colander while you prepare the dressing. The pasta should feel room temperature or slightly cool to touch before mixing.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, milk, ranch seasoning, and protein powder until completely smooth.
  • Add cooled pasta to the dressing bowl along with tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and parsley. Gently fold everything together until every piece is coated.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container up to 3 days, stirring reserved dressing in if needed. Do not freeze, as yogurt textures change when thawed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 450mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5g
Keyword Creamy Dressing, Healthy Pasta Salad, High Protein Salad, meal prep, Protein Pasta Salad
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