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Tasty High Protein Asian Pasta Salad

A vibrant, high-protein pasta salad combining fresh veggies and a creamy peanut dressing, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz rotini pasta Whole wheat or gluten-free option recommended.
  • 1.25 cups finely shredded cabbage Napa cabbage for softer flavor or savoy for more texture.
  • 1.25 cups julienned or grated carrots Freshly grated for the best sweetness and crunch.
  • 1.25 cups diced cucumber Use English cucumbers for less bitterness.
  • 4 pieces scallions Thinly sliced for mild onion flavor.
Peanut Dressing
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter Natural peanut butter is best.
  • 2.5 oz orange juice Freshly squeezed for vibrant flavor.
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar Unseasoned is preferred for tang.
  • 1 tbsp liquid aminos Gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
  • 1.5 tbsp maple syrup Can substitute with honey.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Fresh is best for strong flavor.
  • 4 tsp sriracha Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger Fresh ginger offers the best flavor.
  • 1 tsp sesame oil Adds a nutty flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Thinly slice the cabbage, julienne or grate the carrots, dice the cucumber, and slice the scallions. Place all of these colorful veggies into a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, mince the garlic clove and combine with peanut butter, orange juice, rice vinegar, maple syrup, liquid aminos, sriracha, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water.
  4. Add the cooled pasta to your bowl with vegetables. Pour the prepared peanut dressing over the top. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
  5. Let the salad sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

This salad can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can also be prepared a day in advance; just keep the dressing separate for optimal crunch.