Hi Lykkers! Looking for a fresh, fun, and healthy dish to brighten up your lunch or dinner? Look no further than the Broccoli Fusilli Pasta Salad! This vibrant, zesty dish is a perfect blend of crunchy broccoli, tender fusilli pasta, and a tangy dressing that makes every bite a burst of flavor.
Whether you're prepping for a picnic, meal-planning for the week, or just want something light and refreshing, this pasta salad is a must-try. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Broccoli Fusilli Pasta Salad
Broccoli fusilli pasta salad is everything you want in a dish: it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and loaded with nutrients. Broccoli brings that delightful crunch and plenty of vitamins, while the fusilli pasta provides a satisfying, chewy texture that complements the veggies perfectly.
This dish is great as a main course or a side dish for family gatherings, barbecues, or even a quick meal on the go. Plus, it’s super customizable—add your favorite veggies, a sprinkle of cheese, or even some protein like grilled chicken or tofu. The possibilities are endless!
Spicy Fusilli and Broccoli Pasta Salad
Video by TheCooknShare
Ingredients for a Flavorful Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious broccoli fusilli pasta salad:
- 2 cups fusilli pasta
- 1 medium head of broccoli, chopped into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese or parmesan (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the zesty dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed for that extra zing)
- 1 tablespoon red vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step: Creating the Perfect Pasta Salad
1. Cook the Fusilli Pasta
Start by cooking the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions. You want it al dente—firm to the bite, but not too soft. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Blanch the Broccoli
To keep the broccoli bright green and crunchy, blanch it! Simply bring a pot of salted water to a boil, toss in the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes, then transfer them immediately to an ice bath to cool. This keeps the broccoli tender but crisp and preserves its vibrant color.
3. Whisk Up the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This dressing brings a tangy, refreshing flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooked fusilli, blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and black olives. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until evenly coated. If you’re a cheese lover, now’s the time to add some crumbled feta or shaved parmesan for an extra savory bite!
5. Garnish and Chill
Top the salad with fresh parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor. Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors meld together—trust us, the longer it sits, the tastier it gets.
Customization Ideas
One of the best things about this pasta salad is how versatile it is! Here are a few fun ways to customize your dish:
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu make great additions if you want to turn this into a heartier meal.
- Switch Up the Veggies: Don’t like broccoli? Try adding roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or cucumbers for a different texture.
- Make It Vegan: Skip the cheese and use a dairy-free dressing option for a plant-based meal.
Why Broccoli Fusilli Pasta Salad Is the Perfect Dish
This pasta salad hits all the right notes—it’s healthy, flavorful, and super easy to make. Plus, it’s a great meal prep option. You can make a big batch, store it in the fridge, and enjoy it throughout the week for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of crunchy broccoli, juicy tomatoes, and zesty dressing makes every bite delicious, while the pasta keeps you full and satisfied.
A Fresh Take on Pasta Salad
So, Lykkers, are you ready to add some color and crunch to your meals with this delicious Broccoli Fusilli Pasta Salad? It’s light, healthy, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, serving it as a side dish at a summer barbecue, or just want something fresh and fun for dinner, this salad has it all. Give it a try, and let us know how you make it your own with fun variations and add-ins. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!
