Best Broccoli Pasta Salad
A heartwarming and fresh broccoli pasta salad, perfect for any gathering or as a quick dinner idea, featuring roasted or blanched broccoli, tender pasta, and a creamy dressing.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces short pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle) Cooks to a perfect chew.
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head) Blanched or roasted for toasted flavor.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Burst of sweet acidity.
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced Sharpness that mellows in the dressing.
Cheese and Nuts
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or parmesan Adds savory depth. Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- 1/2 cup toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds For crunch.
Dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt Creamy base; Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Bright acidity.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Depth and tang.
- 1 tablespoon honey Balancing sweetness; omit for vegan.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic lift.
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, fresh basil or dill for freshness
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and keep it chewy.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the broccoli: either blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes and shock in ice water, or toss florets with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast at 425°F for 8 to 10 minutes until edges brown.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Combining
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shredded cheese. Pour the dressing over and toss gently until everything is coated.
- Fold in toasted seeds or nuts for crunch. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more vinegar for brightness or more honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing.
Chilling
- Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
Use whole-wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber; vegan mayo and nutritional yeast for dairy-free options; roasted cauliflower instead of broccoli for a twist.