This Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, crisp broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a versatile dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick, refreshing meal. Packed with flavor and simple to make, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups cooked rotini pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook Pasta:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. - Steam Broccoli:
While the pasta cooks, steam broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and cool. - Prepare Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well. - Combine Ingredients:
Add cooked pasta, broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and red onion to the dressing. Toss until evenly coated. - Refrigerate:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 6
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying pasta salad as a light meal or a flavorful side dish!
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad: A Versatile Crowd-Pleaser
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is an ideal combination of taste, texture, and nutrition, making it a fantastic addition to any culinary repertoire. This dish pairs the comforting heartiness of pasta with the vibrant crunch of broccoli and the creamy richness of cheddar cheese, all brought together by a tangy and satisfying dressing. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a quick meal solution, this salad is a versatile and reliable choice.
The Allure of Pasta Salads
Pasta salads have long been a staple in casual dining. Their popularity stems from their adaptability—nearly every culture has its variation, featuring different ingredients, dressings, and flavor profiles. The Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad stands out because it balances classic ingredients with bold flavors, offering something familiar yet slightly elevated. The creamy dressing, with its tangy undertones, melds the distinct tastes of cheddar and broccoli, creating a dish that satisfies on multiple levels.
Why This Recipe Works
This salad’s brilliance lies in its thoughtful blend of ingredients. Here’s why this recipe is so effective:
- Texture Variety: The pasta provides a soft, chewy base, while the broccoli adds a crisp, fresh element. The shredded cheddar offers a creamy, slightly granular texture that pairs well with the dressing.
- Balanced Flavor: The tanginess from apple cider vinegar complements the sweetness of sugar, while the creaminess of mayonnaise and sour cream enhances the overall flavor profile. The sharpness of cheddar and the subtle zing of red onion add depth.
- Nutritional Value: Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable, packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Paired with pasta and cheese, the salad provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, making it both satisfying and nourishing.
- Ease of Preparation: With minimal prep time and simple instructions, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all levels. Its make-ahead nature also makes it a time-saving choice for busy schedules.
A Versatile Addition to Your Menu
One of the standout features of Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is its versatility. While it shines as a stand-alone dish, it can easily complement a wide range of main courses. Here are a few scenarios where this salad could take center stage:
- Summer Barbecues: Serve it alongside grilled meats like chicken, ribs, or burgers. Its creamy, tangy dressing is a refreshing contrast to smoky barbecue flavors.
- Potlucks and Picnics: Its ability to be served cold makes it perfect for outdoor gatherings. Plus, it travels well and holds up over time without losing its appeal.
- Quick Weeknight Meals: Pair it with crusty bread or a bowl of soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Holiday Side Dish: While pasta salads are often associated with warmer months, this recipe works year-round, adding a splash of brightness to holiday spreads.
Customization Options
One of the great aspects of this salad is its adaptability. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are some variations to consider:
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, diced ham, or crumbled bacon for a heartier version.
- Vegetarian Twists: Incorporate roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or chickpeas for added flavor and nutrition.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute vegan cheese and plant-based mayonnaise for a lactose-free version.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure your Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad turns out perfectly every time, keep the following tips in mind:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better in salads and maintains a pleasant chewiness.
- Steam Broccoli Lightly: Aim for a bright green color and a tender-crisp texture. Overcooking can lead to mushy broccoli.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and enhances the dish’s overall taste.
- Adjust to Taste: Taste the dressing before mixing it with the salad. Adjust the seasoning, sweetness, or tanginess based on your preference.
The Nutritional Perspective
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad offers more than just great taste; it also provides a reasonable balance of macronutrients. While it’s not a low-calorie dish, it’s a satisfying option that can be enjoyed in moderation. The broccoli adds a nutrient-dense component, making it a more wholesome choice compared to traditional pasta salads that might lack vegetables.
Conclusion: A Salad for All Seasons
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is a recipe that checks all the boxes—it’s flavorful, simple to prepare, and versatile enough to fit into various dining occasions. Its combination of textures and balanced flavors make it a standout choice for anyone looking to add a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish to their menu.
Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight meal, a side dish for your next gathering, or a new way to enjoy broccoli, this salad delivers on all fronts. Add it to your repertoire, and it’s bound to become a favorite for its ease, flavor, and appeal across all age groups.
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Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, crisp broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a versatile dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick, refreshing meal. Packed with flavor and simple to make, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups cooked rotini pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. - Steam Broccoli:
While the pasta cooks, steam broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and cool. - Prepare Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well. - Combine Ingredients:
Add cooked pasta, broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and red onion to the dressing. Toss until evenly coated. - Refrigerate:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes