Description
This Broccoli Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing plant-based dish combining tender pasta, crisp broccoli, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a tangy, flavorful dressing. Ready in under 30 minutes, it serves as a quick lunch, light dinner, or a delightful side dish. Packed with wholesome ingredients and adaptable variations, it offers bright, fresh flavors and a perfect balance of textures, making it ideal for meal prep and casual meals alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded plant-based cheese
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (natural)
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Chop broccoli into small florets. Steam for 2-3 minutes or blanch in boiling water briefly, then transfer immediately to icy water to keep the vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Combine Vegetables and Cheese: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta, broccoli florets, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and shredded plant-based cheese. Toss gently to combine evenly.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Toss and Chill: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients. Garnish with fresh herbs. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Do not overcook the pasta; keep it al dente for perfect chewiness.
- Chill the salad to enhance flavor blending.
- Use fresh herbs and crisp vegetables for best taste.
- Adjust the amount of apple cider vinegar to preference for milder or stronger tang.
- Serve cold or at room temperature for best enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Plant-based
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: broccoli pasta salad, plant-based pasta salad, quick pasta salad, vegetable pasta salad, healthy pasta salad
