Description
This Tasty Broccoli Pasta Salad combines crunchy broccoli, tender pasta, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s easy to make and customizable with additional veggies, proteins, or nuts for extra flavor and texture. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch, this vibrant dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or lightly steamed)
- 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini, fusilli, or bowtie work well)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or sliced almonds (optional for crunch)
- For the dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Blanch or steam the broccoli. If using fresh broccoli, blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender and bright green. Drain and rinse under cold water. Alternatively, steam the broccoli for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined to make the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, broccoli florets, red bell pepper, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and sunflower seeds or sliced almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based mayonnaise and dairy-free yogurt, and omit the cheese.
- Feel free to add other veggies like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or peas for extra flavor and color.
- Experiment with herbs like parsley, dill, or basil to enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
