Best 2 Creamy Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipes

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Creamy broccoli pasta salad, an exemplary dish combining flavors that captivates taste buds, is a harmonious symphony of textures and flavors. It is a versatile side dish or main course, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or everyday dinners. The creamy dressing, combining tangy mayonnaise, velvety sour cream, and a touch of Dijon mustard, complements the crisp-tender broccoli and al dente pasta, while a sprinkling of bacon and a hint of sweetness from dried cranberries add delightful accents. This article delves into the secrets of creating the ultimate creamy broccoli pasta salad, offering tips and tricks to transform simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

CREAMY HERBED CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI PASTA SALAD



Creamy Herbed Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Salad image

Stir grilled chicken into this creamy pasta salad with broccoli and roasted red pepper.

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 45m

Yield 4-6

Number Of Ingredients 11

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
3 tablespoons sour cream
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
One 8-ounce boneless skinless chicken breast
2 cups bite-sized broccoli florets
8 ounces dried penne
1/2 cup jarred roasted red peppers, drained and chopped

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Whisk together the mayonnaise, basil, parsley, sour cream, lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper in a large bowl.
  • Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot; brush with the oil. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken, turning once, until well-marked and just cooked through, about 7 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes, then cut into 1/2-inch pieces.
  • Meanwhile, cook the broccoli in the boiling water until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Transfer the broccoli to a colander with a slotted spoon and run under cold water to stop the cooking process. Add the broccoli to the bowl with the dressing.
  • Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool; add to the bowl.
  • Add the chicken and red peppers to the bowl and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper. The pasta salad is best if served right away.

CREAMY BROCCOLI PASTA SALAD



Creamy Broccoli Pasta Salad image

Make and share this Creamy Broccoli Pasta Salad recipe from Food.com.

Provided by carolinafan

Categories     Vegetable

Time 30m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

3 ounces uncooked rotini pasta (spiral shaped pasta, 1 1/4 cups)
1/4 cup light sour cream
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon reduced-calorie mayonnaise
1 tablespoon skim milk
1 clove garlic, minced
3/4 cup fresh broccoli florets
3/4 cup Italian plum tomato (3 to 4 medium)
1 medium carrot, finely shredded (1/2 cup)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil

Steps:

  • Cook rotini to desired doneness as directed on package.
  • Drain; rinse with cold water until cool.
  • Meanwhile, in small bowl, combine sour cream, cheese, mayonnaise, milk and garlic; blend well.
  • In large bowl, combine broccoli, tomatoes, carrot and basil.
  • Add cooked rotini; mix well.
  • Add sour cream mixture; toss gently to mix thoroughly.
  • Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until serving time.

Tips:

  • For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta and reduced-fat mayonnaise.
  • Add some cooked chicken or shrimp to make a more protein-packed salad.
  • If you don't have fresh broccoli on hand, you can use frozen broccoli that has been thawed and drained.
  • To save time, you can buy pre-cut broccoli florets.
  • If you want a more creamy salad, add an extra 1/4 cup of mayonnaise. Adjust to your preferences.

Conclusion:

Whether you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a refreshing salad to serve at your next potluck, this creamy broccoli pasta salad is sure to be a hit. With its simple ingredients and delicious flavor, it's a recipe that you'll turn to time and time again. So next time you're in need of a tasty and satisfying salad, give this creamy broccoli pasta salad a try!

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