This creamy Pasta Salad Recipe with Broccoli and Grapes is packed with sweet grapes, crunchy broccoli, and toasted pecans for the perfect bite. The mayo-based dressing ties it all together, with a hint of bacon adding savory goodness. It’s the perfect mix of flavors and textures!
This Broccoli Grape Pasta Salad is a deliciously creamy and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a healthier twist on your typical pasta salad, thanks to the added grapes, crunchy broccoli, and toasted nuts. The creamy dressing brings it all together, making each bite irresistibly good. Best of all, it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to blend and making your prep even easier!
Making this pasta salad is super simple! Just cook the farfalle pasta and while that’s boiling, toast some pecans in the oven for a nice crunch. Once everything’s cooled off a bit, toss the pasta with the broccoli, grapes, bacon, and red onion. Then, whip up the creamy dressing with mayo, a little sugar, vinegar, and salt, and pour it all over the salad. Give it a good stir, pop it in the fridge, and let it chill for a bit. It’s the kind of dish that gets better the longer it sits!
Why You Will Love Pasta Salad with Broccoli and Grapes
- This pasta salad recipe is a unique twist on traditional pasta salad, with the sweetness of grapes and the crunch of fresh broccoli.
- The creamy dressing ties all the ingredients together for a deliciously smooth texture.
- This pasta salad with grapes & broccoli is a healthier option, packed with veggies and nuts, making it a great side dish or light meal.
- The addition of toasted pecans gives it a satisfying crunch and extra flavor.
- It’s super easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, perfect for busy days or gatherings.
- The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes every bite a treat.
- This pasta salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Ingredients Needed for this Pasta Salad Recipe with Broccoli
- Farfalle pasta
- Chopped pecans
- Chopped broccoli florets
- Red seedless grapes, cut in half
- Bacon crumbles
- Red onion, diced
- Mayonnaise
- Granulated sugar
- Red wine vinegar
- Salt
How To Make Pasta Salad with Grapes
Step 1: Prepare pasta according to package directions, cooking al dente. Drain pasta and place in a large bowl.
Step 2: While pasta is cooking, preheat oven to 350F. Place chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 6-7 minutes, stirring halfway. Be sure not to let them burn.
Step 3: In a medium size mixing bowl combine mayonnaise, sugar, red wine vinegar, and salt. Whisk well.
Step 4: Add broccoli, grapes, red onion, pecans, and crumbled bacon to large bowl with cooled pasta.
Step 5: Pour mayonnaise mixture over pasta salad and stir to mix well.
Step 6: Cover and chill for at least an hour before serving. Enjoy!
Popular Substitutions & Additions
Swap the farfalle pasta for any pasta shape you prefer, like rotini or penne.
You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or even skip it entirely for a vegetarian version.
If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds will work instead.
Add some cheese, like crumbled feta or shredded cheddar, for an extra layer of flavor.
If you’re not a fan of red onions, try using green onions or chives for a milder taste, or leave them out all together.
For more color and flavor, toss in some diced bell peppers or carrots.You can really use any of your favorite raw veggies!
For some extra sweetness, throw in some dried cranberries or raisins.
What to Serve with this Broccoli Salad Recipe
This pasta salad with grapes & broccoli is a versatile side item that will pair well with just about anything! I love taking it to cookouts in the spring and summer, or even just serving it at home with sandwiches or burgers. You could also add chicken into it to make this a complete meal on its own.
Storing Leftover Pasta Salad with Broccoli & Grapes
This Broccoli Grape Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap and kept in the fridge for up to four days.
Make sure to give it a good stir before serving as the dressing may settle on the bottom.
Pasta Salad with Broccoli Recipe FAQ’s
What Is Broccoli Grape Pasta Salad?
It is a salad that contains broccoli, grapes, and pasta.
Is Broccoli Grape Salad Healthy?
Yes, it is a healthier option as it contains various nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
What Are the Best Ways to Enjoy Broccoli Grape Pasta Salad?
You can enjoy it as a side dish or main course. You can also add other ingredients like chicken, or feta cheese.
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! This pasta salad actually gets better the longer it sits, allowing the flavors to blend. Just chill it in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle works great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like rotini, penne, or even shells.
Do I have to toast the pecans?
Toasting the pecans adds extra flavor and crunch, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still enjoy a delicious salad.
Can I make this without mayo?
Yes! You can substitute the mayo with a yogurt-based dressing or a creamy avocado dressing for a lighter, tangier option.
This Broccoli Grape Pasta Salad is perfect for making ahead of time. It’s best if made a day in advance so the flavors have time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Have you ever made Broccoli Grape Pasta Salad? If not, let us know when you do decide to give it a try!
Other Pasta Salad Recipes You’ll Love
- Mexican Pasta Salad
- Veggie Pasta Salad
- Classic Chicken Salad
- Easy Classic Macaroni Salad
- Hawaiian Macaroni Pasta Salad
- Best Potato Salad
Broccoli Grape Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz, farfalle pasta
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
- 3 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
- 2 cups red seedless grapes, cut in half
- 1 cup bacon crumbles
- 1/3 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp. salt
Instructions
- Prepare pasta according to package directions, cooking al dente. Drain pasta and place in a large bowl.
- While pasta is cooking, preheat oven to 350F. Place chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 6-7 minutes, stirring half way. Be sure not to let them burn.
- In a medium size mixing bowl combine mayonnaise, sugar, red wine vinegar, and salt. Whisk well.
- Add broccoli, grapes, red onion, pecans, and crumbled bacon to large bowl with cooled pasta.
- Pour mayonnaise mixture over pasta salad and stir to mix well.
- Cover and chill for at least an hour before serving. Enjoy!
Have you tried this recipe?
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