Best Broccoli Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad featuring fresh broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 oz Pasta (rotini, fusilli, or whole-wheat penne) Act as the base and absorb dressing flavors
- 2 cups Fresh broccoli florets Blanched for crispiness
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved for sweetness
- 1/2 cup Red onion Finely chopped for flavor
- 1 cup Shredded carrots Adds color and sweetness
- 1 cup Feta cheese Crumble over salad for rich flavor
Dressing
- 1/4 cup Olive oil Base of the dressing
- 2 tbsp Red wine vinegar Provides acidity
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Emulsifier for dressing
- salt Salt To taste
- pepper Freshly cracked black pepper To taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare broccoli by trimming into small florets and blanching in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes, then shock in ice water.
- Chop cherry tomatoes in half, finely chop red onion, and shred carrots using a box grater.
Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Assembly
- In a large bowl, combine the prepared vegetables, drained pasta, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle with the dressing and gently toss all ingredients together until well coated.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Consider adding seasonal vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken for a heartier meal. For a creamier dressing, mix in Greek yogurt.