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Broccoli Pasta Salad

Creamy Broccoli Pasta Salad That Elevates Your Picnics

This Creamy Broccoli Pasta Salad is a delightful dish with pasta, bacon, and cranberries, perfect for potlucks or quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta and Veggies
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Cooked al dente
  • 2 cups Broccoli Chopped into small pieces
For the Flavor
  • 6 oz Bacon Pieces Can substitute with turkey bacon
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Can use dairy-free alternative
  • 1/2 cup Finely Chopped Red Onion Substitute with green onions if desired
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Can substitute with raisins or fresh fruit
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Walnuts Can use pecans or omit for nut-free
For the Dressing
  • 3/4 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option
  • 1 tbsp Sugar Can reduce or substitute with honey
  • 2 tbsp White Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be used as an alternative
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Can increase or use white pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Chop broccoli into small florets and finely dice the red onion.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, white vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, dressing, broccoli, bacon, cheddar cheese, onion, cranberries, and walnuts. Toss until well mixed.
  5. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best flavor, make ahead and allow to chill. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Can freeze for up to 2 months but texture may change upon thawing.

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