The traditional creamy elbow macaroni salad is an easy target for a makeover. The trick is to preserve its American character.
This salad, with the exception of the broccoli, can easily be prepped a day in advance. Wait to add the steamed broccoli pieces to the salad. (The vinegar in the dressing will cause the broccoli to discolor if you mix the salad and let it sit overnight.) For optimal taste, bring the salad to room temperature before serving.
BROCCOLI AND CORN DITALINI SALAD
Makes: about 9 cups (10 to 12 servings)
Kosher salt
8 ounces dried ditalini pasta
8 ounces trimmed broccoli crowns
3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Freshly ground black pepper
6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 cups cooked corn kernels (from about 3 ears of corn)
3/4 cup finely diced red onion
3/4 cup seeded, finely diced red or orange sweet bell pepper
Bring a pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add a pinch of salt and the pasta. Cook according to the package directions. Drain, then rinse under cool water until the pasta is no longer warm.
Meanwhile, fill a bowl with cool water and ice cubes. Set up a steamer basket in a pot over barely bubbling water (medium heat).
Cut each broccoli crown into 4 or 5 pieces. Place them in the steamer, cover and cook for 3 minutes. Immediately transfer the broccoli to the ice-water bath; let it sit for 5 minutes. Drain and cut the broccoli into 1/2-inch pieces.
Whisk together the vinegar, mustard, chives, parsley and sugar in a liquid measuring cup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. While whisking, slowly pour in the oil to form an emulsified dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Combine the ditalini, broccoli, corn, onion and bell pepper in a large bowl. Add the dressing and toss to coat evenly. Let sit for 15 minutes before serving. Toss one last time and serve.
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