Broccoli Almond Angel Hair Pasta Salad
A vibrant and crunchy pasta salad featuring tender angel hair, fresh broccoli, toasted almonds, and crispy bacon, tossed in a tangy vinaigrette perfect for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the angel hair pasta until al dente, then drain and rinse with cool water to stop cooking and cool it down.
- Combine oil, cider vinegar, sesame oil, and minced garlic in a jar and shake well to make the dressing.
- Toss the cooled pasta with the dressing until evenly coated.
- Add the cooked and crumbled bacon, toasted sliced almonds, chopped green onions, and Parmesan cheese to the pasta.
- Mix everything together and chill overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Broccoli Almond Angel Hair Pasta Salad, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest for brightness. For a gluten-free option, substitute the angel hair pasta with gluten-free pasta. You can also use different nuts like walnuts or pecans instead of almonds. If you prefer a vegan version, omitting the bacon and cheese works well.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad is perfect as a light main dish or a side dish at picnics and potlucks. It pairs beautifully with Garlic Smashed Potatoes With Bacon for a comforting meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded dinner. Garnish with additional green onions or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld over time, making it even tastier. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Almond Angel Hair Pasta Salad contains roughly 790 calories, with 9g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this Broccoli Almond Angel Hair Pasta Salad is ideal for making ahead. Chilling it overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to keep it well-covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for broccoli?
If you wish to replace broccoli, you can use other vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or even spinach. Each option will lend a different flavor and texture, making it versatile to suit your taste.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad holds up well in meal prep containers. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat, to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy. It makes for an easy and nutritious lunch option throughout the week.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).