Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad

Name: Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups rotini pasta (uncooked); 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced); Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Published: February 7, 2026

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad

This incredible Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Quick Prep Time: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh broccoli, al dente pasta, and zesty dressing creates a delightful mix that’ll keep everyone coming back for more.

Eye-Catching Presentation: With its vibrant colors and appealing textures, this dish is as beautiful as it is tasty—perfect for impressing guests.

Versatile Dish: Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, this Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad adapts easily to suit any meal or occasion.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad:

Pasta: Choose your favorite type of pasta; I generally use rotini or penne for their perfect bite.
Fresh Broccoli: Use bright green florets; they add crunch and nutrients to balance out the creamy dressing.
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded or cubed chicken adds protein and makes this salad satisfying enough for a meal.
Dressing: A mix of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper brings all the flavors together harmoniously.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add color and sweetness to every bite.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a zingy kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.

For additional toppings:

Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese sprinkled on top adds richness and enhances the flavor experience.

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

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring day in Hawaii (minus the sunburn), add your pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—just firm enough to hold onto that delightful dressing!

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

While your pasta cooks away happily in its bubbly bath, steam those broccoli florets until they’re tender but still bright green. You want them crunchy enough to give you that satisfying snap when you bite into them.

Step 3: Mix Up the Dressing

In a separate bowl (yes, another dish—but trust me), combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth—this dressing will bring everything together like good friends at a reunion!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Drain your cooked pasta and allow it to cool slightly before adding it to a large mixing bowl along with steamed broccoli, shredded chicken breast, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Pour over that luscious dressing and stir gently until everything is coated evenly.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

If you can resist diving right in (though I totally understand if you can’t), cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This allows all those flavors to mingle like old pals at a coffee shop.

Step 6: Final Touches

Just before serving (or if you have low patience levels—who am I kidding?), sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added indulgence! Transfer generous portions onto plates and get ready to bask in compliments!

Enjoy your delightful Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad as part of an outdoor gathering or picnic—it pairs beautifully with sunshine!

You Must Know About Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad

This showstopping Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta first; this gives it time to cool while you prepare the rest. Next, blanch the broccoli to retain its vibrant color and crunch, then toss everything together with your favorite dressing for a harmonious mix of flavors.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad! Swap out broccoli for asparagus, use different pasta shapes, or add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas. Experiment with dressings—try a creamy ranch or a zesty lemon vinaigrette!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, enjoy it cold or warm it gently in the microwave without overcooking the broccoli.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad

This professional-quality Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Making this dish brought back memories of my first attempt at impressing friends with my culinary skills. I nervously served it during a weekend gathering, and their delighted reactions made me feel like a kitchen superstar!

FAQs

What is Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad?

Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad is a nutritious dish that combines pasta, fresh broccoli, and protein-rich ingredients. This salad is perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy meal while keeping things light. The combination of whole grain pasta, steamed broccoli, and added proteins like chicken or chickpeas makes it not only filling but also packed with essential nutrients. It’s an excellent choice for lunch or dinner and can be prepared quickly, making it a favorite among busy individuals.

How do you make Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad?

To prepare Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad, cook your preferred pasta according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, steam fresh broccoli florets until tender. Once both are ready, mix them in a bowl along with your choice of protein, such as diced grilled chicken or canned chickpeas. For added flavor, toss in a dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. You can serve this salad warm or chilled for a refreshing dish any time!

Can I add other vegetables to Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! One of the great aspects of Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad is its versatility. You can easily incorporate other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for added flavor and nutrition. Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables to keep your salad interesting and colorful. The more veggies you add, the richer the flavor becomes while boosting its health benefits.

Is Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad is an excellent option for meal prep! You can make a large batch in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, enhancing the overall taste. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness and texture. This makes it a convenient choice for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

In summary, Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad is a fantastic dish that combines nutrition with ease of preparation. By incorporating wholesome ingredients like pasta and broccoli along with your favorite protein source, you create a satisfying meal that supports a healthy lifestyle. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side dish, this salad proves to be both delicious and versatile. Don’t hesitate to try out different variations to make this Protein Broccoli Pasta Salad your own!

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