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Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad

Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad

  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (when using gluten-free pasta and substitutes for croutons)

Description

Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines crisp broccoli florets, al dente pasta, and creamy Caesar dressing for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for quick meals, potlucks, or casual gatherings, this salad offers a delicious twist on classic Caesar flavors with the addition of fresh vegetables and optional crunchy toppings. Easy to customize, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing salad that can be served as a main dish or side.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Base

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh and crisp
  • 8 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle), cooked al dente
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Crunchy Toppings

  • 1 cup croutons or toasted bread crumbs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli: Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. About 3 minutes before pasta finishes cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to lightly steam. Drain both pasta and broccoli, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool down.
  2. Make the Caesar Dressing: If using store-bought dressing, stir well to combine separated ingredients. For homemade dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, anchovy paste (optional), Dijon mustard, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss cooled pasta and broccoli with Caesar dressing until evenly coated. Add halved cherry tomatoes and additional freshly grated Parmesan if desired for flavor and brightness.
  4. Add Crunch and Chill: Just before serving, sprinkle croutons or toasted bread crumbs over the salad for extra texture. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to avoid overly soft noodles.
  • Choose fresh, vibrant broccoli for the best texture and flavor.
  • Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavor integration.
  • Make homemade Caesar dressing for fresher, brighter taste.
  • Toss gently with dressing to prevent sogginess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Boiling, Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Broccoli Caesar Pasta Salad, pasta salad, broccoli salad, Caesar dressing, healthy pasta salad, easy salad recipe, gluten free pasta salad

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Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/broccoli-caesar-pasta-salad/