Ingredients and Weight:
- Broccoli, florets: 1 lb
- Pasta (penne, rotini, or macaroni): 1 lb
- Red onion, chopped: 1/2 cup
- Celery, chopped: 1/2 cup
- Carrots, shredded: 1/2 cup
- Bacon, cooked and chopped: 1/2 cup
- Sunflower seeds: 1/4 cup
- Dried cranberries: 1/4 cup
Dressing:
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup
- Sour cream: 1/4 cup
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Honey: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
15 minutes
Difficulty Level:
1 (Simple)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- While pasta is cooking, steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp.
- Whisk together dressing ingredients in a bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli, red onion, celery, carrots, bacon, sunflower seeds, and cranberries.
- Add dressing and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately 1 cup):
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Protein: 15 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Refreshing and crunchy
- Creamy and tangy dressing
- Colorful and visually appealing
User Comments:
- "This salad is a perfect summer side dish. It's light and flavorful, and I love the combination of broccoli and bacon."
- "I made this for a potluck and it was a hit! Everyone asked for the recipe."
- "I like to add some crumbled blue cheese to mine for an extra kick."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for best flavor.
- Make sure to steam the broccoli until it's just tender-crisp to prevent it from getting too soft.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
