7 High-Protein Pasta Salad Recipes (Vegan & Delicious!)

If you’re looking for a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s also vegan, you’re in the right place!

These high-protein pasta salad recipes are not only easy to prepare but also packed with plant-based protein to keep you full and energized.

Whether you need a quick lunch, a meal prep option, or a dish for your next gathering, these salads are sure to impress.

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Why High-Protein Pasta Salads?

Pasta salads are a staple for many reasons:

• Easy to make: Minimal cooking required.
• Packed with nutrients: Balanced carbs, healthy fats, and plant-based protein.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make ahead and store for busy days.
• Customizable: Switch up ingredients to match your preferences.

Thanks to high-protein pasta options like lentil, chickpea, and edamame pasta, you can enjoy these delicious salads while meeting your protein needs.

7 High-Protein Vegan Pasta Salad Recipes

Each recipe serves 2 people. Use any protein pasta you like for these recipes! Adjust the ingredients and amount to your needs.

1. Creamy Chickpea & Avocado Pasta Salad

Protein per serving: ~20g

This creamy, zesty pasta salad combines chickpeas and avocado for a protein-packed meal with a rich texture.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpea pasta
• 1 can chickpeas (drained & rinsed)
• 1 avocado (mashed)
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook chickpea pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mash the avocado and mix with tahini, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss pasta and chickpeas with the dressing.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.

2. Mediterranean Lentil Pasta Salad

Protein per serving: ~22g

Packed with lentils, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, this Mediterranean-inspired salad is both flavorful and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked lentil pasta
• 1/2 cup cooked green lentils
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/4 cup black olives (sliced)
• 1/4 cup red onion (chopped)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook lentil pasta and let it cool.
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl and toss well.
3. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

3. Edamame & Tofu Asian Pasta Salad

Protein per serving: ~24g

A delicious Asian-inspired pasta salad packed with protein from edamame and tofu, finished with a sesame-ginger dressing.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked edamame pasta
• 1/2 cup edamame beans
• 1/2 cup cubed firm tofu
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger

Instructions:

1. Cook edamame pasta and let it cool.
2. Toss pasta with all other ingredients.
3. Chill for 15 minutes before serving.

4. Vegan Pesto Tempeh Pasta Salad

Protein per serving: ~26g

A creamy basil pesto combined with tempeh makes this salad incredibly hearty.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked whole wheat pasta
• 1/2 cup cubed tempeh (pan-fried)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/4 cup basil pesto (vegan)
• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta and let it cool.
2. Pan-fry tempeh until golden brown.
3. Mix pasta, tempeh, and remaining ingredients.
4. Serve immediately.

5. Spicy Black Bean & Corn Pasta Salad

Protein per serving: ~21g

A Tex-Mex inspired pasta salad with black beans and corn for a protein boost.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpea pasta
• 1/2 cup black beans (drained & rinsed)
• 1/2 cup corn
• 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta and let it cool.
2. Toss all ingredients together and serve.

6. Peanut Butter & Tofu Noodle Salad

Protein per serving: ~25g

This creamy, peanut butter-infused noodle salad is satisfying and high in protein.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked whole wheat spaghetti
• 1/2 cup cubed tofu
• 1/4 cup shredded cabbage
• 2 tbsp peanut butter
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta and let it cool.
2. Whisk peanut butter, soy sauce, and lime juice to make dressing.
3. Toss all ingredients together and serve.

7. Quinoa & White Bean Pasta Salad

Protein per serving: ~23g

This fiber-rich pasta salad combines quinoa pasta with white beans for a creamy texture and great taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked quinoa pasta
• 1/2 cup white beans (drained & rinsed)
• 1/4 cup diced cucumber
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp tahini
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta and let it cool.
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
3. Serve chilled.

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FAQ

Which vegan pasta has the most protein?

Chickpea, lentil, and edamame pasta have the highest protein content, ranging from 12-25g per serving.

Can I meal prep these pasta salads?

Yes! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What can I use instead of tofu?

Tempeh, seitan, or extra beans are great alternatives for protein.

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