Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and freshness? Look no further than this Grilled Tomato and Broccoli Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette! Perfect for warm weather dining or as a delightful side at your next gathering, this Italian-inspired salad combines tender pasta with charred cherry tomatoes and crisp broccoli, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a dish that not only pleases the palate but also impresses your guests. Dive into our recipe and discover how easy it is to create a colorful, nutritious meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the ingredients. Measure out 8 oz of pasta and set it aside. Rinse 2 cups of broccoli florets under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Also, wash 2 cups of cherry tomatoes and slice them in half.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the broccoli. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set aside.
- In a grill pan or outdoor grill, preheat to medium-high heat. Toss the halved cherry tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the tomatoes cut-side down on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are charred and softened. Remove from the grill and set aside.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool slightly before adding it to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the blanched broccoli florets and grilled cherry tomatoes to the bowl with the pasta. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup of olive oil until emulsified. Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Transfer the pasta salad to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your Grilled Tomato and Broccoli Pasta Salad!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold onto the dressing well, such as fusilli or penne, to enhance the overall flavor of the salad.
- Don’t Skip the Ice Bath: After blanching the broccoli, plunge it into ice water to keep its vibrant green color and crisp texture. This step makes a noticeable difference!
- Grill for Flavor: For an extra smoky flavor, consider using a charcoal grill instead of a grill pan. The charred tomatoes will add a delightful depth to your pasta salad.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more variety and color. Just make sure to grill or blanch them appropriately.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Garnish with fresh basil just before serving to add a burst of aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
- Adjust the Dressing: Taste the vinaigrette before adding it to the salad. You can adjust the acidity by adding more balsamic vinegar or olive oil to suit your preference.With these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a stunning and delicious Grilled Tomato and Broccoli Pasta Salad that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
