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Broccoli Cauliflower Pasta Salad

This Broccoli Cauliflower Pasta Salad is an easy cold side dish made with crisp vegetables, pasta, bacon, mozzarella, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, cookouts, and family dinners.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Chill Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 27 minutes
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Servings: 8
Author: Carol

Ingredients

  • 8 oz bowtie Pasta noodles
  • 3 cups bite size broccoli florets
  • 3 cups bite size cauliflower florets
  • ½ cup red onion, diced
  • 2.5 oz bacon pieces
  • ½ cup Mozzarella cheese
  • 1 ½ cups mayonnaise
  • 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp pepper

Instructions

  • Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small bite-sized pieces, then finely dice the red onion. Set everything aside until ready to assemble the salad.
  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until just al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain well, then rinse the pasta under cold water until completely cooled to stop the cooking process.
  • While the pasta cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and seasonings in a large mixing bowl until the dressing is smooth and fully combined.
  • Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and stir until all of the noodles are evenly coated in the dressing.
  • Add the broccoli, cauliflower, red onion, bacon pieces, and mozzarella cheese. Gently toss everything together until well mixed.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1-2 hours before serving so the flavors have time to blend and the salad stays cold and fresh.