Broccoli Pasta Salad

This Broccoli Pasta Salad is a flavorful way to jazz up your mealtime with vibrant ingredients like gluten-free pasta, fresh broccoli, and creamy dairy-free yogurt dressing. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers and health enthusiasts alike!

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Updated April 2024

Broccoli Pasta Salad: Two Delicious Variations

Looking for a flavorful and satisfying salad that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Broccoli Pasta Salad, featuring two mouthwatering variations that are sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re craving a classic version or a trendy twist, we’ve got you covered with these delicious recipes.

Why you’ll love this recipe

We love making this healthy Broccoli Pasta Salad ahead of time since it keeps really well in the fridge making it perfect if you’re planning to make this ahead of time for a picnic or a summer barbecue the next day.

• Versatile Options: Choose between the original broccoli pasta version or the trendy Instagram/TikTok variation, catering to different tastes and preferences whether you’re vegan, gluten-free or need some low carb or grain-free options.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like broccoli, grapes, nuts, and fresh herbs, this salad offers a nutritious and satisfying meal option.
• Flavorful Dressings: Whether you opt for the creamy poppy seed dressing or the creamy avocado dressing, each variation adds a burst of flavor and creaminess to the salad.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the salad in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it an ideal option for meal prep or entertaining.
• Customizable: Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite veggies, nuts, or dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a gathering, attending a potluck, or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, this broccoli pasta salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Original Broccoli Pasta Version:

• Pasta: Choose your favorite gluten-free or grain-free pasta to provide the perfect base for this salad. We love these grain-free pastas from Jovial and Cappello’s. If you are looking for a chickpea or lentil based pasta, you can use Banza pasta shells that are made with chickpeas. For keto, there’s Almond Love or use your favorite low carb pasta you like.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a nutritious crunch and vibrant green color to the dish.
• Grapes: Juicy grapes bring a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors of the salad.
• Red Onion, Cucumbers, and Radishes: These crisp and colorful veggies add texture and a hint of zing to each bite.
• Vegan Feta: Creamy and tangy, vegan feta cheese crumbles elevate the salad with their rich flavor. We like Violife Vegan Feta. You can omit or use your favorite feta if not dairy-free.
• Toasted Pecans and Dried Cranberries: These tasty additions provide a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, adding crunch and sweetness to the dish.
• Primal Kitchen Ranch Dressing OR Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing: Whether you opt for a store-bought ranch dressing or whip up a homemade poppy seed dressing, the creamy dressing ties all the ingredients together for a harmonious flavor experience.

For the Instagram / TikTok Version:

• Pasta: Cooked and drained pasta of your choice forms the base of this vibrant salad. We love these grain-free pastas from Jovial and Cappello’s. If you are looking for a chickpea or lentil based pasta, you can use Banza pasta shells that are made with chickpeas. For keto, there’s Almond Love or use your favorite low carb pasta you like.
• Broccoli: Finely chopped broccoli florets add a pop of green and a boost of nutrition to the dish.
• Cucumbers and Asparagus: Fresh cucumbers and asparagus add crispness and a burst of flavor to every bite.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds brightness and herbaceous notes to the salad.

Instagram / TikTok Version – Avocado Dressing:

• Avocado: Creamy avocado serves as the base for this luscious and flavorful dressing.
• Tahini: Nutty tahini adds richness and depth of flavor to the dressing.
• Garlic, Nutritional Yeast, and Chives: These aromatic ingredients infuse the dressing with savory goodness and a hint of tanginess.
• Lemon and Maple Syrup: Fresh lemon juice and a touch of maple syrup balance the flavors and add a subtle sweetness to the dressing.

Instructions: How to make Broccoli Pasta Salad

For the Original Broccoli Salad Version:

1. Cook Pasta and Prepare Dressing: Cook the pasta according to package directions and prepare the creamy poppy seed dressing.
2. Assemble Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, red onions, cucumbers, radishes, and vegan feta. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
3. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the fridge for at least an hour. Before serving, toss in the grapes, pecans, dried cranberries, and remaining vegan feta.

For the Instagram / TikTok Version:

1. Cook Pasta and Asparagus: Cook the pasta according to package directions. In the same pot, sauté the asparagus until tender and bright green.
2. Prepare Dressing: Combine all the ingredients for the avocado dressing in a blender and blend until smooth.
3. Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, cucumbers, and sautéed asparagus. Pour the avocado dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the fridge for at least an hour. Before serving, top with fresh parsley or chives.
5. Versatile Options: Choose between the original broccoli pasta version or the trendy Instagram/TikTok variation, catering to different tastes and preferences.
6. Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like broccoli, grapes, nuts, and fresh herbs, this salad offers a nutritious and satisfying meal option.
7. Flavorful Dressings: Whether you opt for the creamy poppy seed dressing or the creamy avocado dressing, each variation adds a burst of flavor and creaminess to the salad.
8. Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.
9. Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the salad in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it an ideal option for meal prep or entertaining.
10. Customizable: Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite veggies, nuts, or dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
11. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a gathering, attending a potluck, or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, this broccoli pasta salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.

Tips for Success:

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.
• Chop Ingredients Uniformly: Chop the broccoli, grapes, and other veggies uniformly to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or additional dressing.

Serving Suggestions:

• Light Lunch or Side Dish: Enjoy a serving of this salad as a light and nutritious lunch, or serve it as a flavorful side dish alongside your favorite entrees.
• Side Dish: Serve the broccoli pasta salad as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or air fryer tofu.
• Main Course: Enjoy a larger portion of the salad as a satisfying main course for a light and nutritious meal.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring this colorful salad to potlucks, picnics, or barbecues for a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love.

Summer pasta salads variations

Pasta salads are always a delicious crowd-pleaser and perfect for lunch, a light dinner and spring and summer potlucks, picnics, cookouts and backyard BBQs.

• Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to swap out the broccoli, cucumber, or radishes for your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots.
• Nut Options: Customize the salad by using different nuts or seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds, based on personal preference.
• Dressing Variations: Experiment with different dressing options, such as a tangy vinaigrette, creamy tahini dressing, or zesty lemon-garlic dressing.

Want more gluten-free pasta salad recipes? Check out our Vegan Caesar Pasta Salad, Avocado Spinach Pasta Salad, Caprese Pasta Salad, Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad or our Tortellini Pasta Salad.

Serving Suggestions:

• Side Dish: Serve the broccoli pasta salad as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
• Main Course: Enjoy a larger portion of the salad as a satisfying main course for a light and nutritious meal.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring this colorful salad to potlucks, picnics, or barbecues for a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions:

• Refrigerator Storage: Store the prepared salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the salad in advance, but wait to add delicate ingredients like grapes, nuts, and dressing until just before serving to maintain freshness.
• Meal Prep: Divide the salad into individual lunch containers for convenient grab-and-go meals throughout the week. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer Instructions:

• Not Recommended: Due to the fresh ingredients and dressing, this salad is not suitable for freezing and is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you remain firm in your decision, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

• Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free? Yes, you can use regular pasta if you don’t have dietary restrictions. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Can I omit the nuts for a nut-free version? Absolutely! Feel free to omit the nuts or substitute them with seeds for a nut-free option.
• Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Yes, both the creamy poppy seed dressing and avocado dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

More healthy salad recipes you will love:

Vegan Caesar Salad

Cobb Salad

Pasta Salad Four Ways

5 from 1 vote

Print

Broccoli Pasta Salad - 2 Variations

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

8 mins

Total Time

18 mins

 

This Broccoli Pasta Salad is the perfect easy side dish for summer barbecues, potlucks and picnics. With two delicious variations to choose from with fresh broccoli, crispy cucumber and either red grapes, pecans, feta, dried cranberries tossed in a creamy homemade Poppyseed dressing or with a creamy avocado dressing. Gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free with grain-free paleo-friendly options. 

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Keyword: broccoli salad recipe, easy pasta salad recipe, healthy pasta salad recipe, healthy side dish recipe, picnic recipes, potluck

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 389 kcal

Author: Kelly

Ingredients

Original Broccoli Pasta Version

• 8 oz dried gluten-free pasta , use any gluten-free or grain free pasta brand you like, but if you are paleo these from Jovial, or Almond Love for Keto or Cappello's grain-free pasta. If you are looking for a chickpea or lentil based pasta, you can use Banza pasta shells that are made with chickpeas.
• 3 cups broccoli florets , chopped into small pieces
• 2 cups grapes , cut into halves
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1/3 cup chopped cucumbers
• 1/4 cup sliced radishes
• 1/3 cup crumbled vegan feta , divided - we like Violife
• 1 cup toasted pecans chopped
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup Primal Kitchen Ranch Dressing OR Homemade Dressing below

For the Original Dressing: Creamy Poppy Seed

• 1/2 cup plain dairy-free / vegan yogurt , we like Kitehill plain almond milk yogurt or Culina Plain and Simple.
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup , or use your favorite sticky liquid sweetener such as Lakanto sugar-free maple syrup, date syrup, coconut flower nectar syrup, liquid monk fruit or honey if not vegan.
• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil OR avocado oil
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds , optional
• salt and black pepper to taste

For the Instagram / TikTok Version

• 8-10 oz dried gluten-free pasta , use any gluten-free or grain free pasta brand you like, but if you are paleo these from Jovial, or Almond Love for Keto or Cappello's grain-free pasta. If you are looking for a chickpea or lentil based pasta, you can use Banza pasta shells that are made with chickpeas.
• 2-3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 head) , finely chopped.
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumbers
• 1/2 cup chopped asparagus , (woody ends removed)
• 1-2 tbsp fresh chopped herbs of choice (parsley or chives) , for topping

Instagram / TikTok Version - Avocado Dressing

• 1 avocado
• 1/4 cup tahini , can also sub with preferred runny nut / seed butter of choice
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 lemon
• 1 tsp pure maple syrup , or preferred liquid sweetener of choice
• 1/2 tsp salt , or to taste
• black pepper , to taste

Instructions

For the original broccoli salad version

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.

For the Original Dressing: Creamy Poppy Seed

1. Combine all the ingredients together in a resealable jar. Shake well and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, broccoli, red onions, cucumber, radishes and half of the feta to the bowl. Pour in the dressing and toss evenly coat. Season as needed with salt and pepper.

   Cover bowl and chill in the fridge for at least an hour. Toss in grapes, pecans, cranberries and more crumbled feta before serving.

3. For meal prep: Divide salad into lunch containers. Store in fridge for up to 4 days.

Instagram / TikTok version

1. In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.

   Using the same pot / pan, add 1-2 tsp oil heat. Add the asparagus and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still bright green. Set aside.

   Place all the dressing ingredients into a blender/food processor and blend until smooth. Add a bit more water if needed. Taste and season with salt and pepper.

   In a large bowl add the pasta, broccoli, cucumber and sautéed asparagus. 

   Add the dressing and toss evenly to coat. Season as needed with salt and pepper. Cover bowl and chill in the fridge for at least an hour.

   Top with fresh chopped parsley / chives and optional toppings before serving. Serve immediately or cover and chill in the fridge.

Recipe Notes

• Refrigerator Storage: Store the prepared salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the salad in advance, but wait to add delicate ingredients like grapes, nuts, and dressing until just before serving to maintain freshness.
• Meal Prep: Divide the salad into individual lunch containers for convenient grab-and-go meals throughout the week. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer Instructions:

• Not Recommended: Due to the fresh ingredients and dressing, this salad is not suitable for freezing and is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you remain firm in your decision, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Broccoli Pasta Salad - 2 Variations

Amount Per Serving (1 serving)

Calories 389 Calories from Fat 162

% Daily Value*

Fat 18g28%

Carbohydrates 48g16%

Fiber 8g32%

Sugar 28g31%

Protein 15g30%

* Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy using the WPRM recipe calculator. It is best to make your own calculations to ensure accuracy. We expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.