Description
Fresh Broccoli Pasta Salad is a vibrant, crowd‑pleasing side that combines al dente pasta, crisp broccoli florets, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a tangy creamy dressing. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, and family meals, this easy recipe delivers bright colors, fresh textures, and a balanced flavor profile in just minutes. No cooking tricks required—just simple steps, pantry staples, and a burst of garden freshness that makes every bite memorable. Serve chilled and watch it disappear at picnic
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups short‑shape pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite‑size pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese of your choice (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, drain and rinse with cold water.
- Steam broccoli for 2‑3 minutes, then shock in ice water and drain.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Combine pasta, broccoli, tomatoes, onion, and cheese in a bowl; toss with dressing.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra crunch
- add toasted sliced almonds. Substitute gluten‑free pasta for a wheat‑free version. Use dairy‑free yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Fresh Broccoli Pasta Salad, easy pasta salad recipe, summer side dish, broccoli pasta salad, quick lunch ideas, healthy pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad, make ahead pasta salad, summer potluck recipes, fresh vegetable salad