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Vibrant Italian High Protein Pasta Salad in a clear container showing rotini, tomatoes, and salami.

High Protein Pasta Salad with Italian Salami and Herb Vinaigrette

A vibrant, macro-friendly High Protein Pasta Salad featuring al dente rotini, savory dry salami, and crisp vegetables tossed in a glossy herb vinaigrette. Perfect for meal prep and high-energy lunches.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 16 oz Rotini Pasta 450g, cooked al dente
  • 8 oz Dry Salami 225g, thin-sliced and quartered
  • 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes 300g, halved
  • 1 large Green Bell Pepper 200g, diced
  • 1 can Black Olives 170g, sliced
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion 100g, thin slivers
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil 120ml
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar 60ml
  • 1 tbsp Dried Oregano 3g
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard 5g

Equipment

  • 1 Large Stockpot For boiling pasta
  • 1 Glass Mixing Bowl Large enough for tossing
  • 1 Mason Jar For emulsifying vinaigrette

Method
 

Pasta Preparation
  1. Cook rotini in heavily salted water for 1 minute less than package directions until al dente.
  2. Drain and rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch.
Assembly
  1. In a jar, combine oil, vinegar, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper. Shake until glossy and emulsified.
  2. Mix cooled pasta with salami, tomatoes, peppers, olives, and onions in a large bowl. Toss with dressing.

Notes

Rinse the pasta thoroughly to ensure the salad doesn't become gummy.
Allow the salad to chill for 2 hours for maximum flavor development.