High Protein Mediterranean Salad Ingredients

• Chickpea Elbow Macaroni: A gluten-free, high-protein alternative to traditional pasta, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake without sacrificing flavor. You could also try orzo pasta, or regular wheat pasta if that is what you have on hand! I used these ones!
• Artichoke Hearts: Packed with fibre and antioxidants, artichokes add a tender texture and a slight tang to this Greek pasta salad inspired dish.
• Sun Dried Tomatoes: Offer a chewy texture and a concentrated burst of sweetness, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
• Kalamata Olives: Known for their bold flavor, these olives add a touch of Mediterranean authenticity and are rich in healthy fats.
• Corn and Edamame: Both ingredients add sweetness and crunch, as well as a good dose of plant protein. Ideally, you can swap these vegetables out with anything you have on hand like red bell peppers, cucumber, or any other vegetables.
• Feta Cheese: Provides a creamy, salty contrast to the other flavors in the salad and adds calcium. 
• Chicken Breast: A lean protein source that complements the hearty ingredients, making the salad a complete meal. Opt to skip adding chicken breast if you’re making a meat-free salad. Crispy tofu or falafels would be a nice substitute. 
• Cherry Tomatoes: Their juiciness and vibrant color make them a fresh, acidic component that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
• Baby Arugula: Adds a peppery note, enhancing the freshness of the salad.
• Green Onion: Offers a mild, crunchy bite that finishes the dish beautifully. Red onion can be used if you want a more pungent flavor.

Pasta Salad Dressing

• Dijon Mustard: A key component that emulsifies the dressing, providing a tangy sharpness that binds the other flavors together. Its creamy texture helps to blend the oil and vinegar seamlessly.
• Grated Garlic: Adds a pungent kick that’s crucial for any Mediterranean-inspired dish.
• Red Wine Vinegar: This provides a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the olive oil, enhancing the overall freshness of the salad. Red wine vinegar is also known for its ability to improve heart health and aid in digestion.
• Dried Oregano: A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, dried oregano brings a subtle earthiness with hints of mint and hay, complementing the bold flavors of the garlic and mustard. 
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, they fine-tune the dressing, enhancing all the other ingredients. Salt helps to balance the acidity of the vinegar, while pepper adds a slight heat that gives the dressing a little complexity. If you want to add a little spice to this dressing you could add red pepper flakes. 
• Olive Oil: Acts as the base of the dressing, adding a smooth and velvety texture. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor and health benefits, including heart-healthy fats and antioxidants, which contribute to the overall richness and depth of the salad dressing.