Tasty Broccoli Pasta Salad 

This Tasty Broccoli Pasta Salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that combines fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing. It's perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal. The salad is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even better taste.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces rotini pasta

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets

• ½ cup red onion, finely dice

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• ½ cup red grapes, halved (optional)

• ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

2. Prepare the Broccoli: While the pasta is cooking, blanch the broccoli florets by boiling them in water for 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain again and pat dry.

3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, blanched broccoli, diced red onion, crumbled bacon, red grapes, and chopped pecans.

5. Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

6. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal

• Protein: 9g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 23g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 6g

• Sodium: 380mg