Broccoli & feta pasta salad
This Broccoli & Feta Pasta Salad combines fresh broccoli, tangy feta, and olives with gluten-free pasta for a healthy, satisfying dish. It's simple to prepare and perfect for a light lunch or dinner side.
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup feta cheese4 tsp olive oil
1 tsp vinegar
1 cup olives
1 cup gluten-free pasta
1 cup broccoli
This Broccoli & Feta Pasta Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that's perfect for a light lunch or a side at dinner. With a combination of fresh ingredients like broccoli, tangy feta, and savory olives, this salad is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Plus, using gluten-free pasta ensures it's suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the cup of gluten-free pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- While the pasta is cooking, bring another pot of water to a boil.
- Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn bright green and are tender but still crisp.
- Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to halt cooking and maintain their color. Drain well and add to the mixing bowl with the pasta.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 4 tsp of olive oil and 1 tsp of vinegar. You can add a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning if desired.
- Add the sliced or whole olives to the bowl with the pasta and broccoli.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pasta salad to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss. You can garnish with a few extra crumbles of feta and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
- Enjoy as a light main course or a side dish!
Enjoy this delicious Broccoli & Feta Pasta Salad as it combines wholesome ingredients and delicious flavors suited for any meal. The creamy feta, fresh broccoli, and hearty gluten-free pasta make for a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time. Whether you're serving it as a main course or a side, this recipe is a quick and healthy option for busy days.
Broccoli & feta pasta salad FAQ:
Cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 7-10 minutes, until al dente. It’s important to check regularly to avoid overcooking.
Blanch the broccoli for about 2-3 minutes until it turns bright green and is tender yet still crisp. To stop the cooking, immediately transfer it to ice water.
Yes, you can make the salad up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The flavors will develop as it chills.
If you need a substitute for feta cheese, consider using goat cheese or a vegan cheese alternative for a similar flavor and texture.
You can use any type of olives you prefer, such as Kalamata, green olives, or Castelvetrano. Each will provide a different flavor profile.
Cooking Tips:
- Blanch the broccoli: To keep the broccoli crunchy and vibrant green, blanch it by boiling for 1-2 minutes and then plunging it into ice water.
- Crumbly feta: If you prefer a creamier texture, opt for a block of feta that you can crumble yourself rather than pre-crumbled feta.
- Olive variety: Feel free to use your favorite type of olives, whether they are black, Kalamata, or green, to tailor the flavor to your taste.
- Pasta cooking: Be sure to cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions to avoid it becoming too mushy, as gluten-free pasta can be more delicate.
Nutrition Facts
2 ServingsCalories 300kcal
Protein 10g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 3.68g
Sugar 1.10g
Fat 24g
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