Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its twisty shape, which holds the dressing well. You can substitute any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle, depending on what you have on hand.

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star of this dish! If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works too—just toss it in with the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking.

Red Onion: This adds a nice crunch and bite. If red onion is too strong for your taste, you could use green onions or even some finely chopped bell pepper for sweetness.

Bacon: While bacon adds a delicious crunch, feel free to skip it for a vegetarian option. You can also use turkey bacon or even croutons for a different texture.

Greek Yogurt: This is what makes the salad creamy! If you’re not a fan, you can substitute it with sour cream or more mayonnaise for an equally tasty, but richer, dressing.

How Do I Make the Perfect Creamy Dressing?

Creating a creamy dressing for your pasta salad is simple! It’s essential to balance the flavors so it complements, not overpowers, the other ingredients. Here’s how to do it:

• Start by combining Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for a smooth base. Adjust the ratio according to your creaminess preference.
• Add vinegar for acidity; it brightens up the flavors. Honey or maple syrup can help if you want a hint of sweetness.
• Dijon mustard gives a subtle kick. Mix well until there are no lumps; that way, the dressing evenly coats the pasta and veggies.
• Finally, taste your dressing and adjust the salt and pepper to get it just right!

Once your dressing is ready, don’t forget to refrigerate the salad afterwards. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 3 cups rotini pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or substitute with more Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Time Needed:

This delicious broccoli pasta salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill. So, in total, plan for just under an hour before you get to enjoy this tasty dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente—this usually means it should be firm but not hard when bitten. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set the pasta aside in a large bowl.

2. Prep the Fresh Ingredients:

While your pasta is cooking, take this time to chop the fresh broccoli into small florets. You want them bite-sized and easy to eat. Next, finely chop the red onion. If you’re adding bacon, cook it in a pan until crispy, then drain on paper towels and crumble it into small pieces.

3. Combine the Salad Base:

Now that your pasta is cooled and your veggies are prepped, in the same large bowl (or another if you prefer), mix together the cooled pasta, broccoli florets, red onion, and crumbled bacon. This is the hearty base of your salad!

4. Make the Creamy Dressing:

In a separate small bowl, it’s time to whisk together the dressing. Combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy; it should coat the back of a spoon nicely.

5. Dress the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together so that all the ingredients are well-coated in the dressing. This will ensure every bite is deliciously creamy!

6. Taste & Adjust:

Give the salad a taste. If you feel it needs a little more flavor, sprinkle in extra salt and black pepper until it’s perfect for you.

7. Chill & Serve:

Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors merge beautifully. When ready to serve, enjoy your chilled salad as a light meal or a healthy side dish! It’s fresh, tangy, and oh so creamy!

Bon appétit! Enjoy your Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta Salad!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great choice for added fiber and a nuttier flavor. Just be sure to cook it al dente, as it can become softer than regular pasta when overcooked.

How Can I Make It Vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the bacon and substitute the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with a plant-based yogurt and vegan mayo. Maple syrup can remain as the sweetener, or use agave syrup for a vegan-friendly option.

What Should I Do With Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better as they sit! Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may separate a bit. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or more yogurt to loosen it up!

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in any other veggies you enjoy. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers would all be excellent choices and can add extra color and crunch to the salad!