Pasta, Pepper And Broccoli Salad
A vibrant and savory pasta salad featuring crunchy broccoli, sweet red peppers, and a tangy sesame soy dressing, perfect for light lunches or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook linguine according to package directions.
- Cut red peppers into 1/4-inch strips.
- Cut broccoli into 2 x 1/2-inch pieces.
- In a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of hot olive oil.
- Cook red peppers and 1/4 teaspoon salt until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove peppers to a bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, red wine vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked linguine, cooked peppers, broccoli, and toasted sesame seeds.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier salad, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein. If you want to reduce sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust the salt to taste. You can substitute the sesame oil with a neutral oil if you prefer, but this may alter the flavor profile. Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor, so don't skip this step.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. It can also be served alongside a light soup for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, serve with a slice of crusty bread or alongside Vegan recipes for a balanced feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the salad in the microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, enjoy it cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta, Pepper And Broccoli Salad contains roughly 447 calories, with 12g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1854mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute linguine with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it's al dente.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Just remember to add the dressing right before serving to keep the pasta and vegetables fresh and crunchy.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Feel free to include other vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or even edamame for added crunch and nutrition. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetables you choose.
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).