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Broccoli Pasta Salad

Creamy Broccoli Pasta Salad Perfect for Your Next Picnic

This Creamy Broccoli Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of tender rotini, crunchy broccoli, and savory bacon, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Feel free to swap for gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Salad
  • 2 cups Broccoli Fresh broccoli adds vibrant crunch and nutrition; frozen can also work if thawed.
  • 1 cup Bacon Pieces Consider turkey bacon for a lighter twist.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese A dairy-free cheese can substitute for a vegan version.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Green onions can replace it for a milder flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Raisins are a good alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Walnuts You can use pecans or omit for a nut-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can lighten it up as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Feel free to reduce or omit for a low-sugar version.
  • 2 tablespoons White Vinegar Apple cider vinegar works as a great substitute.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust to your taste preference.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil the pasta in salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets and finely dice red onion. Set aside.
  3. Make the dressing by combining mayonnaise, sugar, white vinegar, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
  4. Combine cooled pasta with the dressing in a large bowl, then add broccoli, bacon, cheese, onion, cranberries, and walnuts. Mix gently.
  5. Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 8mg

Notes

For best flavor, refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Rinse pasta under cold water to keep broccoli crisp. Adjust dressing ingredients to taste.

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