Name: Broccoli Pasta Salad | Best Easy Healthy Side Dish Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: PastaChoose a small to medium-sized shape like rotini, fusilli, or orecchiette that can hold the dressing well. Cooked al dente, it forms the hearty base.; Fresh Broccoli FloretsCut into bite-sized pieces for easy eating and a perfect crisp-tender texture once blanched. This provides the signature crunch and vibrant color.; Red OnionFinely diced for a subtle pungent kick that adds depth without overwhelming the other flavors. It provides a nice contrast to the creaminess.; Dried CranberriesThese add a wonderful burst of sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the crunchy vegetables. They elevate the overall flavor profile.; Toasted Sunflower SeedsOffer a delightful nutty flavor and an extra layer of crunch, contributing to the varied textures of the salad. Ensure they are unsalted.; MayonnaiseThe creamy base for our luscious dressing, binding all the ingredients together. Opt for a good quality brand for the best flavor.; Apple Cider VinegarProvides the essential tang and acidity to cut through the richness of the mayonnaise, balancing the dressing perfectly.; Granulated SugarA touch of sweetness that enhances the other flavors and makes the dressing irresistible. You can adjust this to your preference.; Dijon MustardAdds a subtle complexity and a little zing to the dressing, acting as an emulsifier and deepening the savory notes.; Garlic PowderOffers a mild, aromatic garlic flavor that melds seamlessly into the dressing. It's a quick way to add savory depth.; Salt and Black PepperEssential seasonings to highlight and balance all the flavors in both the pasta and the dressing. Adjust to taste.

Description

Discover our vibrant Broccoli Pasta Salad! Al dente pasta, crisp broccoli, sweet cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds unite in a simple, zesty dressing.

Ingredients

PastaChoose a small to medium-sized shape like rotini, fusilli, or orecchiette that can hold the dressing well. Cooked al dente, it forms the hearty base.
Fresh Broccoli FloretsCut into bite-sized pieces for easy eating and a perfect crisp-tender texture once blanched. This provides the signature crunch and vibrant color.
Red OnionFinely diced for a subtle pungent kick that adds depth without overwhelming the other flavors. It provides a nice contrast to the creaminess.
Dried CranberriesThese add a wonderful burst of sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the crunchy vegetables. They elevate the overall flavor profile.
Toasted Sunflower SeedsOffer a delightful nutty flavor and an extra layer of crunch, contributing to the varied textures of the salad. Ensure they are unsalted.
MayonnaiseThe creamy base for our luscious dressing, binding all the ingredients together. Opt for a good quality brand for the best flavor.
Apple Cider VinegarProvides the essential tang and acidity to cut through the richness of the mayonnaise, balancing the dressing perfectly.
Granulated SugarA touch of sweetness that enhances the other flavors and makes the dressing irresistible. You can adjust this to your preference.
Dijon MustardAdds a subtle complexity and a little zing to the dressing, acting as an emulsifier and deepening the savory notes.
Garlic PowderOffers a mild, aromatic garlic flavor that melds seamlessly into the dressing. It's a quick way to add savory depth.
Salt and Black PepperEssential seasonings to highlight and balance all the flavors in both the pasta and the dressing. Adjust to taste.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Notes

This creamy salad loves a good chill! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, though the pasta might soften slightly over time.
This delightful salad shines when served cold, so skip the microwave! It's designed to be a refreshing, chilled side dish or light meal.
For a complete and satisfying meal, try serving this vibrant pasta salad alongside grilled chicken, barbecued ribs, or your favorite summer sandwich.
For maximum crunch and flavor, consider adding the toasted sunflower seeds right before serving; they'll retain their delightful texture best rather than softening if mixed in too far ahead.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (220g)
Calories: 330
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 2g