Perfect Pairing Pasta Sides

Two High-Protein Summer Pasta Salads You'll Make All Season

Nothing says summer like a cold, creamy pasta salad sitting next to burgers, grilled chicken, or fresh fruit. The only problem? Traditional pasta salads are usually heavy on refined carbs and light on the nutrients that help keep you satisfied.

With a few simple ingredient swaps, you can enjoy all the flavors you love while adding more protein and cutting back on unnecessary calories. These two easy recipes are perfect for backyard cookouts, weekly meal prep, picnics, or a quick lunch straight from the fridge.

Recipe 1: High Protein Grinder Pasta Salad

Love the bold flavors of a classic Italian grinder sandwich? This protein-packed pasta salad transforms those deli favorites into a satisfying summer side that's full of flavor and easy to make ahead.

Ingredients

• 1 box Explore Cuisine Organic Chickpea Pasta
• ½ cup Primal Kitchen Avocado Oil Mayo
• 1 tbsp Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar
• 4 Chomps Meat Snack Sticks, sliced
• 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup diced cucumber
• ¼ cup sliced pepperoncini
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup reduced-fat mozzarella pearls
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the chickpea pasta according to package directions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and cool completely.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, vegetables, mozzarella, and sliced Chomps meat sticks.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayo, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 6

Recipe 2: Island-Inspired Protein Mac Salad

This tropical-inspired twist on classic macaroni salad is creamy, refreshing, and loaded with satisfying protein. It's a lighter version of a cookout favorite that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, seafood, or burgers.

Ingredients

• 1 box Al Dente Protein Pasta Cavatappi
• ½ cup Walden Farms Calorie Free Flavored Mayo
• 1 tbsp Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar
• ½ cup diced celery
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper
• ¼ cup shredded carrots
• ¼ cup diced pineapple (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped green onion
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the protein pasta according to package directions. Drain, rinse, and cool completely.
2. Whisk together the mayo, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Fold the cooled pasta together with the vegetables and optional pineapple.
4. Stir in the dressing until everything is evenly coated.
5. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh green onion before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 6

Why These Summer Swaps Work

Instead of relying on traditional pasta and heavy dressings, these recipes use smarter ingredients that fit a healthier lifestyle.

More Protein

Protein-rich pasta and meat snacks help make these salads more satisfying than traditional versions.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Both recipes taste even better after they've chilled, making them ideal for lunches throughout the week.

Cookout Ready

Bring one to your next BBQ or picnic and enjoy all the classic flavors with a healthier twist.

Creamy Without Compromise

Using better-for-you mayo options delivers the rich, creamy texture everyone expects from pasta salad.

More Summer Swap Inspiration

Love finding healthier versions of your favorite summer foods?

Browse the full Summer Swap Series for even more recipes, easy ingredient swaps, and high-protein ideas that make healthy eating simple all season long.