Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto – Easy & Fresh

There’s something comforting about a big bowl of pasta salad, isn’t there? I remember the first time I attempted to make a pasta salad for a family gathering. It was a mix of panic and excitement as I juggled boiling pasta and chopping veggies while trying to remember the recipe I had saved online. I’ll never forget the look on my mom’s face when she took a bite of my creation; it said, “You did it!” This Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto is my go-to recipe now. It’s bright, hearty, and feels totally doable—even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. I’m here to assure you that with just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends!

Why I Love This Recipe of Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto (V/GF)

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, not just for its incredible flavor but also for its versatility and ease. Busy families like yours can appreciate how simple it is to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. The combination of roasted broccoli and creamy hemp pesto creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes—plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for everyone at the table.

The heartiness of the gluten-free pasta ensures that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy every bite. And let’s not forget about the health benefits! Packed with nutrients from the vegetables and healthy fats from the hemp seeds, this dish provides a delicious way to nourish your body without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto (V/GF)

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This Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto can turn a simple dinner into a delightful experience. Here’s what you need to gather to create this scrumptious dish:

Essentials

• 2 small heads organic broccoli, chopped (~7 cups chopped): Broccoli is the star of this salad! Not only does it add a beautiful color, but it also provides essential vitamins and minerals.
• 1-2 Tbsp olive oil: This helps to roast the broccoli and enhances the flavor.
• 1/4 tsp each sea salt and black pepper: These add the needed seasoning to the broccoli before roasting.
• 2 tsp salt (for salting water): Salting the water helps season the pasta as it cooks.
• 1 ½ cups (dry) gluten-free pasta (I like Trader Joe’s brown rice quinoa fusilli): This gives the pasta salad its base. You can use your favorite gluten-free pasta type.

For the Hemp Pesto

• 2 (heaping) cups packed basil: Fresh basil is crucial for that vibrant pesto flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, skins removed (4 cloves yield ~2 Tbsp): Garlic provides a fragrant kick to the dish.
• 1/4 cup hemp seeds (or pine nuts): These add creaminess, protein, and healthy fats to the pesto.
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice: This brightens all the flavors in the pesto.
• 3-4 Tbsp nutritional yeast: This gives the pesto a cheesy flavor without any dairy.
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (plus more to taste): For seasoning the pesto.
• 3-4 Tbsp olive oil (if avoiding oil, sub water): This makes the pesto creamy and helps it blend smoothly.

Additional Ingredients (Optional)

• 2/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (if in oil, pat dry; I like Trader Joe’s brand): Adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
• 1/2 cup macadamia nut cheese (optional): This can elevate the creaminess of your salad if you choose to include it.
• 1 sprinkle red pepper flake (optional): A little heat never hurt anyone!

Substitutions and Shortcuts

You don’t need a bunch of fancy ingredients to make this Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad. If you can’t find hemp seeds, feel free to substitute them with walnuts or sunflower seeds. If you’re short on time, you can buy pre-chopped broccoli or even use frozen broccoli to make things simpler. And if you don’t have macadamia nut cheese, feel free to skip it entirely or use any non-dairy cheese you prefer.

How to Make Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto (V/GF) Step-by-Step

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making this Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto. Don’t worry; I’ll walk you through this step-by-step!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Broccoli

First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (204 C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Next, take the chopped broccoli and toss it in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well coated. Once your oven is up to temperature, spread the broccoli evenly on the baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes or until it’s beautifully golden brown.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your broccoli is roasting away and filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma, bring a pot of water to a boil on the stove. Remember to add 2 tsp of salt to the boiling water—this will season the pasta as it cooks. Add your gluten-free pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions or until al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Hemp Pesto

Now let’s make the magic happen! In a food processor, combine the packed basil, garlic, hemp seeds (or pine nuts), lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and sea salt. Process these ingredients until they’re mixed well. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture reaches a creamy consistency. If you find the pesto too thick for your liking, feel free to add a splash of water to loosen it up. Don’t forget to taste it! Adjust the flavors to your preference—add more salt for seasoning, nutritional yeast for cheesiness, or even a bit more garlic for an extra bite. Set the pesto aside once you’re happy with it.

Step 4: Combine It All Together

Once the broccoli is roasted and has cooled slightly, it’s time to assemble the salad. In a large serving or mixing bowl, combine the roasted broccoli, drained pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and small spoonfuls of macadamia nut cheese, if you’re using it. Then take that luscious pesto you prepared and dollop it on top. Gently toss everything together—you want it mixed well without breaking the pasta!

Step 5: Enjoy!

You can serve it immediately while it’s still warm or refrigerate it for later. This Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad keeps for about 3-4 days in the fridge (though it doesn’t freeze well), making it perfect for meal prep. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature—perfect for your busy family dinners!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best of us can stumble in the kitchen. Here are some common pitfalls to look out for while making this Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto:

1. Overcooking the Broccoli

Roasting broccoli is a delicate balance. If you leave it in the oven too long, it could turn mushy rather than crispy and tender. Keep an eye out during the roasting process and pull it out once it’s lightly golden brown.

2. Undercooking the Pasta

When cooking gluten-free pasta, timing is crucial. Check the package directions for the cooking time, and remember that gluten-free pasta can become mushy if overcooked. It’s best to taste it a minute or two before the recommended cooking time is up.

3. Skipping the Pesto Tasting

Don’t skip the crucial step of tasting the pesto before mixing it into your salad. Adjusting the flavors to your preference will make a huge difference in the final dish. Trust me; you want to fall in love with that pesto!

4. Not Letting the Broccoli Cool Slightly

Mixing hot broccoli directly into the salad can cause the pasta and other ingredients to overheat, which isn’t desirable. Letting the broccoli cool for a few minutes ensures your salad maintains a nice, fresh temperature, enhancing the flavors.

Easy Variations for Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto (V/GF)

Feel free to get creative! Here are a few variations you can try to switch things up:

1. Add More Veggies

While broccoli is a wonderful choice, don’t hesitate to throw in other veggies you have on hand! Asparagus, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes would add vibrant colors and flavors to the salad.

2. Switch the Herbs

If basil isn’t your favorite, try substituting it with fresh spinach, arugula, or even parsley in the pesto. Each herb will give the dish a unique twist while blending perfectly with the other ingredients.

3. For Added Protein

To boost the protein content, add some chickpeas or edamame to the salad. This addition not only enhances the nutritional profile but also provides a fantastic texture contrast.

4. Tweak the Dressing

Not in the mood for hemp pesto? You can experiment with different dressings. A simple vinaigrette made of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard can work wonders. Just drizzle it over the salad right before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto (V/GF)

This Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto offers flexibility in serving. Here are a few ideas:

1. As a Standalone Meal

If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying dish, this pasta salad can serve as a filling meal on its own. The addition of hemp seeds and macadamia nut cheese makes it a hearty option.

2. As a Side Dish

Pair the salad with grilled veggies, tofu, or a light protein like chicken or shrimp. It beautifully complements a variety of main dishes.

3. Perfect for Picnics and Potlucks

This pasta salad is always a hit at picnics and gatherings! Prepare it ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge. It travels well and is best enjoyed outdoors on a sunny day.

4. Topped with Fresh Greens

Create a bed of mixed greens or spinach on a plate and top it with a generous serving of your pasta salad. It provides a lovely base while adding freshness to the dish.

Conclusion

And there you have it! Making Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto is easier than it looks, and you can customize it to fit your family’s tastes. It’s a cozy, classic dish that’s perfect for busy nights, bringing everyone together for a nourishing meal. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you just might find your new favorite way to enjoy pasta!

If you loved this recipe or have any tips or variations, I’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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FAQs About Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto (V/GF)

Now it’s your turn! I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!