Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that’s as wholesome as it is delicious, let me introduce you to my beloved Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad. This recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s packed with nutritious ingredients that not only nourish your body but also tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s vegetarian and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!

I love this salad because it’s versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or bringing a dish to share at a potluck, this Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad fits the bill beautifully. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from quinoa and healthy fats from nuts, this salad is as good for you as it is tasty.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can whip this up ahead of time, making it perfect for lunches or snacks throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet crunch of apples paired with crisp broccoli makes this a hit with both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients or toppings to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this salad! Here’s what you’ll need for the Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad:

For the Salad

• ½ cup dry quinoa
• ¾ cup water
• ⅓ cup toasted nuts (I like using walnuts + almonds)
• 3 cups chopped broccoli
• 1 medium honeycrisp apple
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese (or extra sharp white cheddar)
• Dried cranberries

For the Dressing

• 2 ½ TBSP extra virgin olive oil
• 1 TBSP apple cider vinegar
• 1 TBSP dijon mustard
• ½ TBSP honey
• ¼ tsp sea salt (plus extra to taste)
• ⅛ tsp freshly ground black pepper (plus extra to taste)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the nuts: Use pecans or pumpkin seeds if you’re looking for something different!
• Add some protein: Toss in chickpeas or grilled chicken for an added boost of protein.
• Change up the cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or leave it out entirely.
• Mix in more veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach can add more color and nutrition.

How to Make Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Start by rinsing your quinoa under cold water. This removes any bitterness. In a small saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 13 minutes until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork afterward—it adds a nice texture!

Step 2: Toast the Nuts

While your quinoa cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and add your choice of nuts. Toast them for about 5 minutes until they’re golden brown and fragrant. This step enhances their flavor and crunch! Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

Step 3: Prepare Your Veggies and Apples

Chop up your fresh broccoli into bite-sized pieces and dice that sweet honeycrisp apple. If you want an extra zing, squeeze half of that lemon over the apples right after cutting them; this prevents browning while adding some zest!

Step 4: Make Your Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing brings everything together beautifully!

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with broccoli, apple chunks, toasted nuts, and cheese (or cheddar). Drizzle with dressing and toss everything gently until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—this step makes sure every bite is perfect!

Now that you’ve made this delicious Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad, serve it immediately or chill in the fridge for later. Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

Making the perfect Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad is easier than you think! Here are some tips to help you elevate this delicious dish.

• Rinse the quinoa: Rinsing quinoa before cooking removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. This simple step ensures your salad has a clean and nutty flavor.
• Toast the nuts: Lightly toasting walnuts and almonds enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet will do the trick!
• Use fresh lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the salad and balances the sweetness of the apple. It also helps keep the apple from browning too quickly.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator lets the flavors meld together beautifully. Plus, it tastes refreshing when served cold!
• Customize your ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Adding dried cranberries or swapping feta for sharp white cheddar can create new flavors and textures!

How to Serve Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

This vibrant Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad makes a stunning centerpiece for any meal, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. Here are some ideas for presenting this colorful dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Sliced almonds: For an extra crunch, top your salad with sliced almonds right before serving.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add an extra squeeze of citrus according to their taste.

Side Dishes

• Grilled chicken skewers: Juicy grilled chicken skewers marinated in herbs complement the freshness of the salad perfectly.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the tangy dressing and crunchy broccoli.
• Hummus and pita bread: A creamy hummus served alongside warm pita creates a satisfying appetizer that complements the lightness of the salad.
• Vegetable soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup serves as a comforting addition, making your meal more filling without overpowering the flavors of your salad.

Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad! It’s not just healthy; it’s also packed with flavors that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• If the salad seems dry on the second or third day, add a splash of lemon juice or olive oil before serving.

Freezing

• While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the quinoa separately if you anticipate not finishing it in time.
• To freeze, place cooled quinoa in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Reheating

• If you prefer your salad warm, reheat it gently on the stove over low heat.
• Add a little olive oil or water to help it warm without drying out.
• For a quick option, use the microwave; just be sure to cover it to retain moisture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad:

Can I make Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after sitting for a while as the flavors blend together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad?

If you’re looking for alternatives to feta cheese, try using extra sharp white cheddar or even a dairy-free cheese option. Both will add a delightful flavor!

Is Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe uses quinoa as its grain base, making it naturally gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long does Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Can I add other ingredients to my Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies, fruits, or nuts. Dried cranberries make a great addition for a sweet touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant and nutritious Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that can brighten any table. Whether you’re prepping for busy weekdays or looking for a delightful dish for gatherings, this salad has you covered. Happy cooking and savor every bite!