This Easy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of fresh broccoli, pasta, and cheesy goodness! It’s perfect for lunch or a side dish at your next picnic.
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up! Just cook the pasta, mix in chopped broccoli, and sprinkle with cheddar. It’s so easy; even your kitchen timer will be impressed! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use elbow macaroni for that classic pasta salad feel, but you can switch it up with rotini, penne, or whatever small pasta shapes you have on hand. Just make sure it’s a pasta that holds dressing well!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives this salad great texture and crunch. If you can’t find fresh, frozen florets work too—just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the dish.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a wonderful tangy flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try aged Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Red Onion: I love adding red onion for a bit of bite. However, if you find it too strong, feel free to substitute it with green onions or leave it out altogether. Alternatively, you could use sweet onions for a milder flavor.
How Do You Properly Blanch Broccoli for a Salad?
Blanching broccoli locks in its vibrant color and keeps it crunchy! Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add chopped broccoli and let it cook for just 1-2 minutes. It should turn bright green!
- Quickly transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and keeps it crisp.
- Let it sit for a minute, then drain well to remove excess water before adding it to your salad.
This technique not only enhances the color but also maintains the freshness of your salad. Trust me, your taste buds will appreciate it!
Easy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta shapes
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and a chilling time of at least 1 hour to let all the flavors combine beautifully. Total time is around 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dish to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the pasta as per the package instructions until it’s al dente—this means it should still have a little bite to it. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down completely. This helps prevent mushy pasta and keeps it nice and firm!
2. Blanch the Broccoli:
While your pasta is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped broccoli florets and let them boil for just 1-2 minutes. This quick cooking locks in the color and crunch. Immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain the broccoli well after a minute to remove excess water.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy dressing is what brings all the flavors together!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add the stars of the dish! Add your cooled pasta, blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and red onion (if you’re using it) to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are fully coated with the dressing—be careful not to break the broccoli!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time is crucial for the flavors to meld and make your salad even more delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste it. You can adjust the seasoning with a little extra salt and pepper if needed. This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a side dish to any meal!
Enjoy your fresh and cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad! It’s a hit with everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to use any small pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle. Just make sure the pasta holds the dressing well!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Broccoli?
No worries! You can use frozen broccoli florets. Just thaw them and ensure they’re well-drained before adding to the salad. However, fresh broccoli provides a wonderful crunch and color!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it a day in advance; it actually tastes even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld together. Just stir before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad thickens up, simply stir in a bit of mayonnaise or sour cream before serving to bring it back to a creamy consistency.
