What To Know
- As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, it’s time to embrace the flavors of summer with a refreshing and vibrant pasta salad.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a kick.
As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, it’s time to embrace the flavors of summer with a refreshing and vibrant pasta salad. Our pasta salad with broccoli recipe is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and become a staple at your summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of your favorite pasta (such as penne, rotini, or farfalle)
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup of chopped kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water.
2. Blanch the Broccoli: In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn bright green. Remove the broccoli from the boiling water and plunge it into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, blanched broccoli, red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, Parmesan cheese, basil, and parsley.
5. Pour the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
Variations:
- Add some protein: Throw in some grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to make the salad more substantial.
- Experiment with different veggies: Swap out the broccoli for asparagus, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a kick.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a main course: Serve the pasta salad as a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
- As a side dish: Pair it with grilled meats, fish, or vegetarian dishes.
- As a picnic staple: Pack the salad in a cooler for your next outdoor adventure.
Benefits of Pasta Salad with Broccoli:
- Nutrient-rich: Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Refreshing: The light and tangy dressing keeps you feeling cool and energized on hot summer days.
- Versatile: The salad is customizable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Conclusion: The Perfect Summer Treat
Our pasta salad with broccoli recipe is a culinary delight that will elevate your summer gatherings. Its vibrant flavors, refreshing texture, and versatility make it a crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your warm-weather cooking repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Yes, any short pasta shape such as penne, rotini, or farfalle will work well in this salad.
Q: How long does the salad keep in the refrigerator?
A: The salad can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make the salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate and add it before serving.
