Why Make This Recipe

Best Broccoli Pasta Salad is a colorful and tasty dish that is perfect for any meal. It combines fresh vegetables and pasta, making it a nutritious option. This salad is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it great for picnics, potlucks, or easy weeknight dinners. The balance of flavors and the punch of the dressing will impress everyone.

How to Make Best Broccoli Pasta Salad

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
8 oz pasta (rotini or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until well coated.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and mix gently.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Best Broccoli Pasta Salad

Serve Best Broccoli Pasta Salad cold or at room temperature. It is great as a side dish for grilled meats, barbecues, or even as a light main course for lunch. You can also add extra toppings like sunflower seeds or olives for more flavor.

How to Store Best Broccoli Pasta Salad

You can store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving as the dressing may settle.

Tips to Make Best Broccoli Pasta Salad

Make sure to rinse the pasta in cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it from getting mushy.
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or cucumbers for extra crunch.
For a bit more flavor, let the salad sit for an hour or more before serving to allow the dressing to soak in.

Variation

You can make it a protein-packed meal by adding cooked chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp. For a vegan version, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or bowtie.

Is this salad gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?
The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep it in an airtight container.

Best Broccoli Pasta Salad

Print Recipe

A colorful and nutritious pasta salad combining fresh vegetables and a flavorful dressing, perfect for picnics and potlucks.

Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups broccoli florets
8 oz pasta (rotini or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until well coated.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and mix gently.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a vegan option, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Add extra toppings like sunflower seeds or olives for more flavor.

Author: aymane-mouraigmail-com-2
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: broccoli pasta salad, healthy salad, summer salad, easy pasta, vegetarian recipe