Greek Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that effortlessly combines vibrant colors, fresh textures, and bold Mediterranean flavors, this Greek Broccoli Pasta Salad is going to steal your heart (and your appetite). It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug from the inside, yet is refreshingly light and perfect for any occasion. Packed with crisp broccoli, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny kalamata olives, and creamy feta, all tied together with a tangy red wine vinaigrette, this salad is an absolute showstopper on its own or as a complement to your favorite meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect balance of flavors starts with simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role. These essentials not only bring a rainbow of colors but also create a variety of textures—crunchy, juicy, and creamy—that make the Greek Broccoli Pasta Salad so irresistible.

• Rotini pasta: The corkscrew shape captures the dressing beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh and crisp, they add a lovely green contrast and a healthy crunch.
• Cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, their vibrant red color brightens the entire dish.
• Green bell pepper: Provides a mild, fresh crunch that complements the other veggies.
• Red onion: Adds a touch of sharpness and a beautiful purple hue to balance the flavors.
• Kalamata olives: Bring a salty, tangy punch that is quintessentially Greek.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled on top for that creamy, salty finish that brings everything together.
• Red wine vinegar: The acid in this dressing brightens and ties all the flavors together.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle depth and helps emulsify the dressing.
• Honey: A touch of sweetness that balances out the tang and saltiness.
• Minced garlic: Infuses the dressing with an aromatic kick.
• Dried oregano: Classic Mediterranean herb that gives that unmistakable Greek flavor.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.
• Extra virgin olive oil: The rich foundation of the dressing, bringing everything together in a silky texture.

How to Make Greek Broccoli Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions—usually around 8 to 10 minutes. During the last two minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets so they soften slightly but keep their crunch. Once done, drain everything and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta and broccoli down, which also helps the salad stay fresh and crisp.

Step 2: Toss Together the Veggies

Grab a large serving bowl and combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, finely diced red onion, and sliced kalamata olives. These ingredients don’t just bring amazing flavors; they bring a burst of color and freshness that make this Greek Broccoli Pasta Salad feel as good to look at as it tastes.

Step 3: Add Feta Cheese

Sprinkle crumbled feta generously over the salad to introduce a creamy, salty element that is the hallmark of Greek cuisine. This cheese is what elevates the dish from a simple vegetable pasta salad to something truly special and indulgent.

Step 4: Whisk the Dressing

In a medium-sized bowl, combine red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk these together until thoroughly mixed, then slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking. This process emulsifies the dressing, giving it a luscious texture that will coat every bite wonderfully. If you aren’t using the dressing right away, give it a quick whisk before adding to the salad to keep it perfectly blended.

Step 5: Toss Salad with Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until every ingredient is well coated. You can also serve the dressing on the side if you prefer guests to add as much as they like. This flexibility makes it perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.

How to Serve Greek Broccoli Pasta Salad

Garnishes

For a touch of elegance, consider sprinkling extra crumbled feta and a handful of fresh chopped parsley or dill on top just before serving. These additions add a fresh herbal note and make the salad even more visually appealing.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, or roasted fish, making it a versatile side that complements many Mediterranean-inspired meals. It also works well as a hearty standalone lunch on those warmer days when you want something light but satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Greek Broccoli Pasta Salad in individual mason jars or colorful bowls for picnics or packed lunches. Layer the salad and dressing separately to keep it crisp, then toss just before eating. You can also add toasted pine nuts or cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor twists to surprise your friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Broccoli Pasta Salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because of the fresh veggies and dressing, the flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

Freezing this salad is not recommended due to the fresh vegetables and feta cheese, which can lose their texture and become watery once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.

Reheating

This pasta salad is typically served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmed, remove the dressing first and heat the pasta and broccoli separately, then toss with fresh dressing just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape for the Greek Broccoli Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for holding onto the dressing, penne, farfalle, or mini shells also work wonderfully. Just choose something with texture to trap that flavorful vinaigrette.

Is there a good substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta or need a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta or omit the cheese altogether and add extra olives or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for crunch.

Can this salad be made vegan?

Yes! Simply skip the feta cheese and use a vegan-friendly honey substitute, like maple syrup or agave nectar, in the dressing. The olives and vegetables still offer plenty of flavor and texture.

How long can I prepare this salad in advance?

This Greek Broccoli Pasta Salad is best made the same day or the day before serving. Make sure to store it covered in the fridge and mix the dressing fresh or keep it separately to avoid sogginess.

Can I add protein to the salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tuna can transform this pasta salad into a complete meal. Add them right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so gratifying about a salad that’s bursting with fresh, Mediterranean flavors and textures, and this Greek Broccoli Pasta Salad checks every box. It’s bright, hearty, and endlessly versatile — a recipe that you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your liking and share it with loved ones. I promise it’ll become a staple in your recipe arsenal, bringing joy to every table it graces.

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