Tasty Broccoli Pasta Salad 

This vibrant and flavorful broccoli pasta salad combines crisp broccoli florets, tender pasta, and a creamy dressing, making it a perfect side dish for picnics, potlucks, or casual weeknight dinners. Its blend of textures and tastes is sure to please a crowd.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (16 oz) rotini pasta

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets

• 1/2 cup diced red onion

• 1 cup red grapes, halved

• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1/3 cup red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions

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

2. Prepare the Broccoli: While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 2–3 minutes. Immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well.

3. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, red wine vinegar, and kosher salt until smooth and well combined.

4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, steamed broccoli, diced red onion, halved red grapes, chopped pecans (if using), and crumbled bacon.

5. Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad 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 flavors to meld.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 30 g

• Protein: 10 g

• Fat: 20 g

• Saturated Fat: 3 g

• Cholesterol: 15 mg

• Sodium: 300 mg

• Potassium: 400 mg

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 8 g