Description
Broccoli Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that combines al dente pasta with crisp broccoli florets, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a zesty dressing. This delightful salad is perfect for summer picnics or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying crunch and an explosion of flavors in every bite. Not only is it visually appealing with its bright colors, but it also serves as an impressive crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for your recipe.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for about 2 minutes until bright green. Drain and plunge into ice water to halt cooking.
- Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Toss again before serving and sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blanching
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg