Protein Packed Pasta Salad

Here's a recipe for a protein packed pasta salad that is hubby approved and Mediterranean inspired.

Ingredients:

- 8 ounces pasta (any type you prefer)

- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

- chopped salami (I did half a pack)

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halves

- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

- 1/4 cup pitted black or green olives, sliced

- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

- drizzle with olive oil and ACV (I measure with my heart)

- Add salt and pepper to taste

Optional: I add fermented red peppers to my pasta salad to give it an extra kick. It also adds in some extra probiotics! If you do not like spicy foods, skip this step.

A life hack: When living in Guam I learned that they chop their meat with scissors. I found this odd as an American who has always been taught to cut meat with a knife. But I adopted the habit and it saves so much time!

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and fresh basil.

3. Drizzle the olive oil + ACV over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.

4. Season with sea salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Health benefits of pasta salad:

- Provides energy: Pasta is a great source of carbohydrates, which are the body's main source of energy. It can help fuel your activities and keep you energized throughout the day.

- Good source of fiber: Pasta salad often includes vegetables, which are high in fiber. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain a healthy weight, and keeps you feeling full for longer periods.

- Nutrient-rich: Pasta salad can be packed with various nutrients depending on the ingredients used. Vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and basil provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.

- Protein from chicken + salami: Adding chicken and salami to the pasta salad provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails.

- Hydration: Pasta salad can help keep you hydrated, especially if you use juicy vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumber. Staying hydrated is important for overall health and proper bodily functions.

- Rich in healthy fats + antioxidants when topped with olive oil

Try it and let me know how it goes!