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Broccoli and Feta Pasta Salad

Broccoli and Feta Pasta Salad

Looking for a vibrant, refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Dive into the deliciousness of this Broccoli and Feta Pasta Salad! Bursting with Mediterranean flavors and packed with nutrients, this salad is not just a side dish—it’s a celebration of taste and health in every bite. With just 25 minutes of your time, you can whip up a colorful medley of pasta, fresh broccoli, creamy feta, and tangy olives that will leave your guests begging for the recipe. Ready to impress? Let’s get cooking!

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 6 servings

Ingredients

  1. 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
  2. 2 cups broccoli florets
  3. 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  4. 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  5. 1/4 cup olives, sliced
  6. 1/4 cup olive oil
  7. 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the broccoli. Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized pieces if needed.
  4. During the last 2-3 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets directly to the boiling water to blanch them lightly.
  5. Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander, then immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool down the ingredients.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  7. Add the cooled pasta and broccoli to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat evenly.
  8. Fold in the crumbled feta cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced olives.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
  11. Before serving, give the pasta salad a gentle stir and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Tips

  1. Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta works, opt for shapes like fusilli or penne that hold onto the dressing and ingredients better.
  2. Perfectly Blanch Broccoli: To maintain that vibrant green color and crisp texture, make sure to add the broccoli to the boiling water during the last few minutes of cooking the pasta.
  3. Rinse with Cold Water: After draining, rinse the pasta and broccoli under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep them from becoming mushy.
  4. Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add in other Mediterranean favorites like artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or even grilled chicken for extra protein!
  5. Let It Chill: For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld and enhances the overall taste.
  6. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for an added burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 350kcal

Carbohydrates: 30g

Protein: 12g

Fat: 22g

Saturated Fat: 7g

Cholesterol: 30mg

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