Go Back
+ servings
Broccoli Pasta Salad

Delicious Broccoli Pasta Salad for Effortless Weeknight Dinners

A vibrant Broccoli Pasta Salad that's quick, satisfying, and versatile, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces short pasta (rotini or penne) Choose your favorite type
For the Freshness
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli Chopped into bite-sized florets
  • 1/2 cup red onion Finely diced; can substitute with green onions
For the Savory Elements
  • 4 slices bacon Cooked until crispy
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Can use Greek yogurt as an alternative
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be substituted
  • 1 tablespoon sugar Optional; can omit for a healthier dish
  • 1 teaspoon salt To taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper To taste

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • medium bowl
  • pot for boiling pasta

Method
 

How to Make Broccoli Pasta Salad
  1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
  2. While the pasta cools, chop the fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets and finely dice the red onion.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, dressing, broccoli, and red onion, stirring gently to mix.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Just before serving, stir in the crispy bacon for crunch and flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Optional garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!