Pasta salad with broccoli and cauliflower is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a classic dish. It's a great side dish to any meal, or can be served as a main course. It's a quick, easy and economical way to add a nutritious and filling meal to your table. This recipe is easy to make, and can be altered to suit everyone's tastes.
Ingredients
For this pasta salad recipe, you'll need 2 cups of cooked and cooled pasta, 1 cup of cooked and cooled broccoli, 1 cup of cooked and cooled cauliflower, 1/4 cup of diced red onion, 1/2 cup of diced bell pepper, 1/4 cup of sliced black olives, 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
Instructions
To make the pasta salad, first cook the pasta according to the package instructions. When the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it with cold water. Let the pasta cool completely before adding it to the salad.
Next, cook the broccoli and cauliflower in boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain the vegetables and rinse them with cold water. Let the vegetables cool completely before adding them to the salad.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, cauliflower, red onion, bell pepper, black olives, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine the ingredients.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. The salad can be served cold or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
This salad is very versatile, so feel free to add any other vegetables or proteins that you like. You can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tuna for a heartier meal. For a vegan-friendly version, replace the Parmesan cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
To give the salad a bit of sweetness, add some diced apples or pears. You can also add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for an extra touch of sweetness. You can also add crumbled bacon or crispy pancetta for a savory flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the pasta salad last in the fridge?
The pasta salad will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta that you like. Penne, fusilli, macaroni, and farfalle are all good choices.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the pasta salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve it.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can add any other vegetables that you like. Carrots, celery, and zucchini are all good choices.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by replacing the Parmesan cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
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