Creamy Broccoli Pasta Salad That Will Wow Your Guests

A creamy broccoli pasta salad that combines rotini, broccoli, and bacon, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for any gathering.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Chill Time 1

Total Time 1 30

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Lunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz Rotini Pasta Cook until al dente.

For the Vegetables

2 cups Broccoli Chopped small.
1 small Red Onion Finely chopped.

For the Dressing

1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.
1 tbsp Sugar Optional.
2 tbsp White Vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar.
to taste Salt & Pepper Adjust to taste.

For the Mix-ins

1 cup Bacon Pieces Use cooked bacon for crispiness.
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Can substitute with your favorite cheese.
1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Can substitute with walnuts or raisins.
1/2 cup Chopped Walnuts Can be omitted for nut allergies.

Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Mixing bowl
Whisk

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
Chop the broccoli into small florets and finely dice the red onion. Set aside in a mixing bowl.
Whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, white vinegar, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, chopped broccoli, bacon, shredded cheddar, diced onion, dried cranberries, and walnuts. Toss gently.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat gently. Do not overmix.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Stir gently before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allowing the salad to chill for at least one hour enhances flavor melding. Be careful not to overcook the rotini; al dente is key for a great texture.

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