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High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad for Energizing Meals

This High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors, packing over 30 grams of protein per serving for a nourishing meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 8 ounces Chickpea Pasta A gluten-free, high-protein alternative; avoid overcooking.
Protein
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • 8 ounces Bacon Opt for high-quality bacon for best results.
Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Ranch Seasoning Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Substitute with regular paprika if desired.
Freshness
  • 1 small Red Onion Finely diced.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved for better dressing adhesion.
  • 2 stalks Scallions Use both white and green parts.
Dressing
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Pairing with Greek yogurt boosts protein content.
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Non-fat versions can cut down calories.
Roasting
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be swapped with avocado oil.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare your ingredients: finely dice the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the scallions. Set aside.
  2. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with ranch seasoning. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the seasoned chicken, raw bacon strips, and diced onion.
  3. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 20 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches 165°F and the bacon is crispy.
  4. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the chickpea pasta according to package instructions (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and do not rinse.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and Greek yogurt, adding extra ranch seasoning and smoked paprika.
  6. Once the chicken and bacon are done roasting, let them cool slightly, then chop the chicken and crumble the bacon. In a large bowl, combine the chickpea pasta, chicken, bacon, onion, tomatoes, and scallions.
  7. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture, gently toss to coat, and taste for seasoning. Adjust if necessary.
  8. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for up to three days. If chilling, let the salad sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad is versatile; feel free to switch the pasta or add extra veggies as desired.

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