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Broccoli Pasta Salad

Easy Broccoli Pasta Salad for Colorful Summer Fun

A delicious Broccoli Pasta Salad that celebrates vibrant flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dishes
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 8 oz rotini pasta or penne, or farfalle; gluten-free options available
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets small for even cooking
  • 1 medium red onion or green onions for milder flavor
For the Zesty Add-Ins
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes oil-packed for enhanced flavor
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives or your preferred pitted olives
  • 1 cup feta cheese or goat cheese for a tangy twist
For the Crunch
  • ¼ cup pine nuts optional; sunflower seeds can substitute
For the Creamy Dressing
  • ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • ¼ cup olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoon red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic minced; can be omitted for mild taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or basil or thyme
  • to taste salt and black pepper basic seasonings
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for heat

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
  2. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the pot.
  3. Drain the pasta and broccoli mixture using a colander, then rinse under cold water.
  4. Spread the pasta and broccoli on a kitchen towel to dry thoroughly.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli, red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
  7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
  8. If using, sprinkle pine nuts over the top. Consider toasting them in a skillet for added flavor.
  9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Customize with your favorite ingredients! Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or family dinners.

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