Bacon Broccoli Pasta Salad

A classic creamy broccoli salad has long been my favorite potluck side dish. I’m always delighted when I show up to a party and see a bowl of it set out on the table… there’s just something about the combination of sweet, creamy dressing, crunchy broccoli, and smoky bacon that I can’t get enough of. But I have great news – this salad takes all of those wonderful things but adds tender, chewy rotini to the mix so you get the comfort of carbs with your broccoli salad. It’s really the best of both worlds.

This has all the classic components of a broccoli salad – the broccoli (of course), red onion, sunflower seeds, bacon, dried cranberries (but raisins are fine too if you prefer!) – so you get tons of delicious crunch but it’s also a pasta salad at heart, thanks to the rotini.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of both pasta and broccoli salads, this recipe is a perfect fusion that brings the best of both dishes. The creamy dressing complements the smoky bacon, while the rotini adds a satisfying texture that makes this salad a hearty dish perfect for any occasion.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Colander

Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

For the Dressing:

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, vinegar, mayonnaise, sour cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
3. In the large bowl with the dressing, add the drained pasta, broccoli florets, red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Toss everything together until well combined.
4. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. Just before serving, fold in the crumbled bacon, toss again, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure that the pasta is thoroughly cooled before mixing with the other ingredients to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
• For extra flavor, toast the sunflower seeds lightly before adding them to the salad.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to substitute raisins for cranberries if you prefer a different kind of sweetness. You can also add shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This salad is a good source of fiber and vitamins from the broccoli and cranberries, while also providing protein from the bacon and pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just add the bacon right before serving to keep it crispy.

How long does this salad keep?

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Bacon Broccoli Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on a beloved classic that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The combination of textures and flavors makes it irresistible, and we’d love to hear how yours turns out. Give it a try and share your experience in the comments below!