Seashell - Broccoli Salad
A creamy broccoli and seashell pasta salad with crispy bacon and Parmesan, perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the seashells according to the package instructions, then drain.
- In a frying pan, cook the bacon until crisp, then drain and crumble.
- In a deep saucepan, add the crumbled bacon, margarine, garlic powder, and chopped broccoli.
- Saute the mixture for 7 to 8 minutes.
- Add light whipping cream and Parmesan cheese to the mixture and cook until the cheese is melted.
- Add the cooked seashells to the saucepan and mix well.
- Keep warm until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute turkey bacon for the regular bacon. Using olive oil instead of margarine can add depth to the flavor. If you prefer, fresh garlic can be used in place of garlic powder for a more robust taste. Consider adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots to enhance nutrition, similar to what you might find in a California Club Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli Salad warm as a main dish or as a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork recipes for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or Easy Vegetable Pie to round out the table. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top before serving adds a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salad in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent overheating and maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seashell - Broccoli Salad contains roughly 850 calories, with 17g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 810mg per serving (35% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish. This will help maintain the desired texture and flavor in your Broccoli Salad.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you're out of Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. If you're looking for something creamier, a blend of cream cheese and a little bit of milk can also work well.
How can I make this salad vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can also add nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds for protein and crunch, ensuring it remains hearty and satisfying.
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).