As you savor the flavors of this vibrant California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe, you’ll be transported to a delightful culinary journey filled with freshness and taste.
This delightful salad combines tender pasta, crisp broccoli florets, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a medley of other fresh ingredients, all brought together by a zesty homemade dressing.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity yet remarkable taste, making it a perfect choice for a light and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this culinary masterpiece!
How To Make California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe?
Recipe Overview
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (farfalle or any preferred shape)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
Instructions
Step-1.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
Step-2.
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Step-3.
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black olives, and fresh parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Toss well to combine and coat everything evenly.
Step-4.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step-5.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step-6.
Before serving, top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Step-7.
Enjoy your California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad!
Serving Suggestions
The California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad is perfect to serve as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken, baked fish, or on its own as a light and satisfying meal.
Customize And Variations
To customize the California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad, you can add grilled chicken strips for extra protein, swap broccoli for cauliflower, incorporate sun-dried tomatoes.
Or roasted bell peppers for a twist, or experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro for varied flavors.
How To Store It?
To store the California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad, transfer any leftover salad to an airtight container and refrigerate it.
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
Conclusion
The California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad has been a delightful experience. The vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and harmonious flavors of this salad have made it a favorite in my culinary repertoire.
Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a light meal, this salad never fails to impress with its versatility and delicious taste. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.
If you like this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends. Comment on your salad-making experience.
Cheers to good food and happy eating!
FAQs
Can I Use A Different Type Of Pasta For This Salad?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape for this recipe. Bowtie (farfalle), penne, or rotini work well.
Are There Any Suitable Alternatives For Broccoli In This Salad?
Cauliflower florets can be a great substitute for broccoli in this recipe if desired.
What Can I Serve With This Pasta Salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, baked fish, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing meal.
California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta farfalle or any preferred shape
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ cup red onion thinly sliced
- ½ cup black olives sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional for topping
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Add the cooked pasta, broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black olives, and fresh parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Toss well to combine and coat everything evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad!
- Cheesecake Factory Cream Of Chicken And Artichoke Soup Recipe - May 24, 2024
- Amish Chicken Salad Recipe - May 14, 2024
- Chicken Salad Chick Kickin Kay Recipe - April 13, 2024