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High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad for Your Summer Gatherings

Elevate your meal prep game with this High Protein Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, loaded with flavors and over 30 grams of protein.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Chickpea Pasta or lentil/edamame pasta
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast cut into 1-inch pieces; turkey works as a substitute
  • 1 packet Ranch Seasoning store-bought or homemade
  • 6 slices Bacon or turkey bacon for a healthier option
  • 1 medium Red Onion finely diced; green onions can be used
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved; grape tomatoes can be a substitute
  • 1/2 cup Scallions both white and green parts; chives can be used
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika regular paprika can be used as a substitute
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing low-fat or Greek yogurt dressing for a lighter option
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt sour cream can be used as a substitute

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Large pot
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare your ingredients: finely dice the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the scallions.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken breast pieces with ranch seasoning, ensuring they are evenly coated. Arrange on a baking sheet with diced onion and strips of bacon.
  3. Roast for 20 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and bacon is crispy.
  4. While roasting, bring salted water to a boil in a large pot, add chickpea pasta, and cook for 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, and smoked paprika until smooth.
  6. Chop the roasted chicken and bacon into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine chickpea pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, red onion, and scallions. Pour the dressing over and mix well.
  7. Gently toss together until evenly mixed. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 32gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, allow the salad to chill before serving. It can also be enjoyed immediately.

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