Get ready to transform your boring lunch routine with the most addictive Broccoli Crunch Pasta Salad you've ever tasted! This isn't just another pasta salad – it's a flavor-packed, texture-loaded adventure that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you. Imagine a perfect blend of crisp vegetables, tender pasta, and a creamy ranch dressing that ties everything together in one irresistible dish. Whether you're meal prepping, hosting a summer picnic, or just craving something deliciously satisfying, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 ounces of rotini pasta, 2 cups of broccoli florets, 1/2 cup of shredded carrots, 1/2 cup of diced red bell pepper, 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds, 1 cup of ranch dressing, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the broccoli. You can steam the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Alternatively, you can blanch them by adding them to the boiling pasta water for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool it down and prevent it from sticking together.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, steamed or blanched broccoli, shredded carrots, diced red bell pepper, and sunflower seeds. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
- Season the pasta salad with salt and pepper to taste. Mix again to combine all flavors.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir and taste to adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, cook your pasta just until al dente to maintain a perfect texture that won't get mushy in the dressing.
- Cool your pasta and vegetables completely before mixing to prevent the ranch dressing from breaking down and becoming watery.
- Toast your sunflower seeds lightly before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor and add an extra layer of crunch.
- Make this salad ahead of time – it actually gets better as it sits, allowing the flavors to meld together in the refrigerator.
- For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn this side dish into a complete meal.
- Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture and flavor. If possible, chop them just before mixing to maintain their crunch.
- Don't be afraid to customize! Feel free to swap out ingredients or add your favorite herbs and spices to make this recipe uniquely yours.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
