Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines the nutritional benefits of fresh vegetables with the comforting flavors of cheese and pasta. This salad is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner. With its creamy dressing, crunchy broccoli, and cheesy goodness, this pasta salad is sure to become a family favorite.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the Vegetables: Rinse the broccoli and chop it into bite-sized florets. Finely chop the red onion, and shred or chop the carrots and halve the cherry tomatoes.
2. Cook the Bacon: If using bacon, cook the slices until crispy, then crumble them into small pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add Pasta: Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and stir to prevent it from sticking.
3. Cook Al Dente: Follow the package instructions to cook the pasta until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
4. Drain and Rinse: Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

Preparing the Broccoli

Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli

1. Blanch the Broccoli: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chopped broccoli florets and blanch for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
2. Drain and Cool: Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and set aside.

Making the Dressing

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

1. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk Together: Use a whisk to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.

Combining Ingredients

Step 5: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. In a Large Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, shredded carrots, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon (if using), and sunflower seeds (if using).
2. Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is well coated and combined.

Chilling the Salad

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

1. Cover and Chill: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Stir Before Serving: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Step 7: Plate and Serve

1. Serve Cold: This pasta salad is best served cold. Spoon the salad into serving bowls or onto a large platter.
2. Garnish: For an added touch, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese or sunflower seeds on top before serving.

Suggested Pairings

• Grilled Chicken: This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Sandwiches: Serve alongside sandwiches or wraps for a delightful lunch.
• Barbecue: It’s also a great side dish for barbecued meats or as part of a picnic spread.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version. You can add chickpeas or other legumes for extra protein.
2. Different Cheeses: Swap out cheddar for other cheeses like feta, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
3. Add Fruits: Incorporate diced apples, grapes, or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
4. Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier option, use whole wheat pasta to increase fiber content.
5. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a bit of heat.

Tips for the Perfect Pasta Salad

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente helps maintain a good texture in the salad.
3. Adjust Dressing to Taste: Feel free to modify the dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences; add more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess.
4. Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is a quick and delicious dish that brings together the best of flavors and textures. With its creamy dressing, crunchy broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or a light main course, this pasta salad is sure to please. Easy to make and adaptable to various tastes, this recipe will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the fresh flavors and satisfying combination of ingredients that make this dish a winner!

Yield: 6

Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad Recipe

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Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines the nutritional benefits of fresh vegetables with the comforting flavors of cheese and pasta. This salad is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner. With its creamy dressing, crunchy broccoli, and cheesy goodness, this pasta salad is sure to become a family favorite.

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Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Pasta Salad:
• 8 oz elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
• For the Dressing:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
   
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
   If not using pre-steamed broccoli, steam the broccoli florets until tender but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Allow to cool.
   
3. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
   
4. Combine the Salad:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, shredded carrots, and crumbled bacon (if using).
   
5. Add the Dressing:
   Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
   
6. Chill:
   Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
   
7. Serve:
   Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed, and enjoy!

Notes

Additions: Feel free to customize this pasta salad by adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, or cooked chicken for a heartier meal.

Make Ahead: This salad is perfect for meal prep and can be made a day in advance.