Description
Fresh, vibrant, and incredibly satisfying, this Healthy Spring Broccoli Pasta Salad is the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and refreshing flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast alternative, easy dinner, healthy snack, or fresh food ideas for gatherings, this easy recipe delivers every time. Packed with crisp broccoli, tender pasta, and a tangy creamy dressing, it’s one of those versatile dinner ideas you’ll keep coming back to.
Ingredients
2 cups rotini pasta
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup cheddar cheese cubes
1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup cooked bacon crumbled (optional)
1/4 cup sunflower seeds or chopped nuts
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 1–2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath and drain well.
3. Chop the onion, prepare the cheese, and cook and crumble the bacon if using.
4. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine pasta, broccoli, cheese, onion, cranberries, bacon, and seeds.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving, then toss again and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
Do not skip chilling the salad, as it enhances flavor and texture significantly.
Cut all ingredients into similar sizes for balanced bites.
Adjust dressing consistency with a splash of milk or yogurt if needed before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: healthy salad, broccoli pasta salad, easy recipe, dinner ideas, healthy snack, food ideas