broccoli pasta salad

3 Pinches 1 Photo
Ofallon, MO
Updated on Apr 16, 2026

Broccoli pasta salad combines rotini pasta, blanched broccoli florets, crisp bacon, red onion, cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds in a slightly sweet mayo base. This broccoli pasta salad is ideal for your next gathering, picnic, barbecue, or reunion. Make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

prep time 15 Min
cook time 15 Min
method Stove Top
yield 6 serving(s)

Ingredients

  • CREAMY DRESSING
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • salt, to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • BROCCOLI PASTA SALAD
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 6 slices crispy cooked bacon, coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 4 ounces block cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (salted or unsalted)

How To Make broccoli pasta salad

  • Step 1
    Whisk the mayo, apple cider vinegar, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Step 2
    Cook the pasta al dente, then use a spider strainer to transfer it to a baking sheet. Add the broccoli to the simmering water. Cook for 1 minute. Use the spider strainer to transfer the broccoli to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
  • Step 3
    Combine the drained pasta, broccoli, bacon, red onion, cheddar, and sunflower seeds in a large serving bowl. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to coat.

Discover More

Category: Pasta Salads
Ingredient: Pasta
Culture: American
Method: Stove Top

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