Go Back

Zesty Lemon High Protein Bean Pasta Salad

A refreshing and nutritious pasta salad loaded with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors from beans, veggies, and a zesty lemon dressing.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Beans
  • 8 oz pasta (your choice: whole wheat, gluten-free, etc.)
  • 15 oz cannellini beans, drained and rinsed Opt for organic if available
  • 15 oz garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed Opt for organic if available
Vegetables
  • 8 oz bell peppers, diced (red, yellow, or a mix)
  • 2 cups spinach (fresh is best)
Dressing
  • 1 large lemon, freshly squeezed The zest adds an extra kick!
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin recommended) Make sure it's at room temperature
  • 1.5 oz parmesan cheese, freshly grated Use fresh for best flavor
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust to taste

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Dice your bell peppers and measure out your fresh spinach while waiting.
  3. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Preparing the Beans
  1. Drain and rinse your cannellini and garbanzo beans thoroughly under cold water.
Making the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Whisk for about 30 seconds until everything is well combined, and let it rest.
Cooling the Pasta
  1. Drain the cooked pasta and rinse it under cold water.
Mixing It All Together
  1. In a large serving bowl, combine your cooled pasta, beans, diced bell peppers, and fresh spinach.
  2. Gently mix everything together.
Dressing It Up
  1. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently.
Finishing Touch
  1. Shred or grate the parmesan cheese over the top and toss again.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving
  1. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For a creamier version, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado.