This Broccoli Pasta Salad is colorful, crunchy, and oh-so-tasty! Packed with fresh broccoli, pasta, and a zesty dressing, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or a fun side dish.
I love how easy it is to throw together. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal. Who doesn’t love leftovers that are still yummy? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend rotini for its ability to hold onto the dressing well. If you don’t have it, any short pasta like penne or fusilli will also work. Gluten-free pasta can be a great substitute if you’re avoiding gluten.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and nutrition. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen broccoli florets; just make sure to thaw and drain them well. Other veggies like cauliflower or green beans could add a different flavor, too!
Red Onion: This ingredient gives a nice zing. If red onions are too strong for you, try using green onions or chives for a milder taste. Sweet onions can also be a good choice if you’re looking for something less sharp.
Bacon: I love using crispy bacon for that smoky flavor. If you’re vegetarian or looking for a healthier option, try cooked chickpeas, sunflower seeds, or even smoked tofu to keep that umami flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a crowd-pleaser and adds great creaminess. If you want a stronger flavor, consider using feta or cubed cheddar instead.
How Do You Blanch Broccoli Perfectly?
Blanching broccoli is essential for bright color and crispness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a generous pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for just 2 minutes. This helps to keep them tender but still crunchy.
- Immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water. This “shocking” stops the cooking process and preserves that vibrant green color.
- Once cooled, drain the broccoli thoroughly to prevent extra moisture in your salad.
Trust me, this step makes all the difference in keeping your salad fresh and appealing!
How to Make Broccoli Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups rotini pasta (or any short pasta), uncooked
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup green olives, pitted
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus a little bit of time (at least 1 hour) for chilling in the fridge to let the flavors blend together. In total, you’ll spend around 1 hour and 20 minutes before you can enjoy this fresh and tasty salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, so it has a nice bite to it. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. Set it aside to let the excess water drain completely.
2. Blanch the Broccoli:
In a pot, bring some water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and let them cook for just 2 minutes. You want them to be bright green and slightly tender. After that, immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl filled with ice water. This will stop the cooking process and keep them looking fresh. Once they’re cool, drain the broccoli well.
3. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, broccoli, sliced red onion, shredded carrots, green olives, crumbled bacon, optional chopped chicken, and mozzarella cheese. Gently stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, parsley, and some salt and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything together gently to make sure all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the salad even more delicious!
7. Serve the Salad:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to mix it up again. Taste it, and if needed, add a little extra salt and pepper. Serve your Broccoli Pasta Salad chilled and enjoy the crunch and flavor!
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Broccoli Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works great, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalli. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions until al dente.
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply leave out the bacon and chicken, or replace them with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein for added flavor. The salad will still be hearty and delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad with other veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers. Just keep in mind the balance of flavors and textures!
