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Best Broccoli Pasta Salad


  • Author: emily
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and flavorful broccoli pasta salad perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a quick lunch.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces of pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne)
  • 2 cups of broccoli florets
  • 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup of red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup of bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh herbs (e.g., basil or parsley)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture, and toss well to coat.
  6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if using.
  7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy!

Notes

To enhance flavor, try adding roasted red peppers or chickpeas for protein.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: broccoli salad, pasta salad, side dish, healthy lunch, vegetarian salad