Description
A fresh and vibrant broccoli pasta salad featuring tender fusilli pasta, crisp broccoli florets, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick, healthy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
Pasta
- 8 oz fusilli pasta
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the broccoli into small florets, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red onion, and dice the bell pepper. Combine all the prepared vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cooled pasta and mixed vegetables. Gently toss everything together ensuring the dressing coats all ingredients evenly.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss gently again to distribute the cheese.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Alternatively, serve immediately at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute fusilli pasta with any other short pasta like rotini or penne.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water to cool it quickly and prevent it from sticking.
- This salad can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated for optimal flavor.
- Adjust salt and lemon juice to taste depending on preference for acidity and seasoning.
