Name: Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad: Crunchy, Sweet & So Satisfying
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Quinoa (any color); 2 cups Water; 2 cups Broccoli (finely chopped); 1/2 cup Toasted nuts (Walnuts & Almonds) (or pecans or pistachios); 1/3 cup Feta cheese (optional, can be omitted for dairy-free); 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1-2 tablespoons Honey (to taste); 1 tablespoon Lemon juice; to taste Sea salt; to taste Black pepper

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It’s amazing how just a few fresh ingredients can transform into a vibrant, wholesome meal. Enter my Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad, a delightful mix of crunchy broccoli, crisp apples, and toasted nuts, all drizzled with a tangy honey mustard dressing. This vegetarian and gluten-free salad is not only quick to prepare, but it also boasts an impressive nutritional profile packed with fiber and antioxidants. Perfect for a refreshing lunch or a colorful side dish at dinner, it’s a delicious way to say goodbye to fast food and embrace homemade goodness. Have you ever tasted a salad that’s both satisfying and healthy? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and elevate your salad game!

Why is This Salad a Must-Try?

Vibrant Colors and Textures: Each bite features crunchy broccoli and sweet apple, creating a delightful blend that’s a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Quick and Simple: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time, making it a perfect choice for busy days.
Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with fiber and antioxidants, this Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad is a refreshing way to fuel your body.
Endless Versatility: Easily tailored to your tastes, consider adding dried cranberries for a pop of sweetness or experimenting with different types of nuts.
Crowd-Pleasing Option: Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner, it’s sure to impress and satisfy your guests!
If you’re in the mood for more refreshing salads, check out our Peach Feta Salad or the Summer Berry Salad.

Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Quinoa – This nutritious grain base provides protein and a chewy texture; feel free to use any color you have on hand.
Water – Essential for cooking the quinoa to fluffy perfection.
Broccoli – The star of the dish, packed with vitamins; finely chopping will enhance the eating experience.
Honeycrisp Apple – Adds delightful sweetness and crunch; you can swap for Fuji or Pink Lady apples for similar results.
Toasted Nuts (Walnuts & Almonds) – These provide a satisfying crunch; pecans or pistachios make excellent substitutes.
Feta Cheese – Adds creaminess and tang; for a dairy-free option, you can omit it or try shredded sharp white cheddar.

For the Dressing

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Forms the base for the dressing, delivering heart-healthy fats.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity; this ingredient is key in the Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a zesty kick to the dressing.
Honey – Naturally sweetens the dressing; adjust to taste based on your preference.
Lemon Juice – Helps prevent apple browning and brightens the overall flavor.
Sea Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing all the delightful flavors in the salad.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water; if desired, toast the rinsed quinoa in the pot over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer for about 13 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool in a bowl in the fridge.

Step 2: Toast the Nuts
While the quinoa cools, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a mix of chopped walnuts and almonds, about 1/2 cup total. Toast the nuts for 2-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are fragrant and lightly browned—the excellent aroma will signal they’re done. Once toasted, transfer the nuts to a plate to cool completely, preserving their crunch for your Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a mason jar or small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Add in 1-2 tablespoons of honey and a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously, or whisk until well combined and emulsified. This tangy dressing will be a bright complement to the flavors in your Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad.

Step 4: Combine Salad Ingredients
Finely chop about 2 cups of broccoli florets and dice 1 Honeycrisp apple, tossing them together in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the apple pieces with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to prevent browning and enhance freshness. Gently mix in the cooled quinoa, chopped broccoli, and diced apple; add 1/3 cup of crumbled feta cheese for creaminess if desired.

Step 5: Toss with Dressing and Nuts
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture, ensuring an even coating as you gently toss everything together. Finally, add the toasted nuts, mixing until well incorporated. The delightful crunch of nuts will provide a satisfying texture to the Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad, making it even more enjoyable.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing lunch or a vibrant side dish. For the best flavor experience, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes after tossing, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully. This Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad is ready to impress your taste buds!

Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this salad to your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Omit feta or replace it with dairy-free cheese for a vegan version. This substitution keeps everything creamy without the dairy!
Add Dried Fruits: Toss in a handful of dried cranberries or raisins to bring in a chewy texture and an extra burst of sweetness. These little gems create a delicious contrast!
Nuts Galore: Swap out walnuts and almonds for pecans or pistachios for a fun twist. Each nut adds its unique flavor and crunch, keeping your salad exciting.
Spice it Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that will awaken your taste buds. A little spice can elevate the entire dish!
Fresh Herbs: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an aromatic lift. Fresh herbs add brightness and enhance the salad’s flavor profile splendidly.
Citrusy Twist: Try using lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty flavor change. It brightens the dish in a completely new way and complements the sweetness of the apples beautifully.
Crunchy Toppings: Consider adding crispy chickpeas or roasted pumpkin seeds on top for an extra satisfying crunch. These toppings amp up the texture and add more nutrition!

Mix and match these variations to suit your taste or to create a unique version of this delightful Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with a Summer Berry Salad for a fresh summertime meal, or try serving it alongside our delicious Pasta Salad Cups for variety. Enjoy experimenting!

Expert Tips for Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

Cooking Quinoa Perfectly: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly to remove bitterness, and ensure it cooks evenly. This step is vital for your Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad’s texture.
Avoid Soggy Broccoli: For a fresher crunch, chop broccoli finely and consider briefly steaming it if you prefer a softer texture.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Toast your nuts carefully, as they can burn quickly. Keep an eye on them for that perfect crunch!
Adjust Your Sweetness: Modify the honey in the dressing based on your desired sweetness; taste as you go to get it just right.
Freshness Matters: To keep your salad vibrant, add lemon juice to the apples immediately after dicing to prevent browning.
Mix It Up: Get creative! Substitute with different nuts or apples to keep the flavor exciting every time you make the Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad.

What to Serve with Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

This delightful salad is not only a meal on its own but also a brilliant side dish that can elevate any dining experience.

Creamy Hummus Dip: Light and flavorful, hummus offers a satisfying dip option for crisp bread or veggie sticks, enhancing the meal’s nutritional profile.
Crispy Flatbreads: Warm, crunchy flatbreads are perfect for scooping up salad and dipping into hummus, adding satisfying texture and flavor.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, seasoned chicken pairs beautifully with the salad’s crunch, creating a balanced dish for both meat eaters and vegetarians.
Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies tossed in lemon vinaigrette add warmth and a tangy counterpart, perfectly complementing the freshness of the salad.
Fresh Mixed Berry Tart: A light dessert bursting with berry goodness provides a sweet finish to your meal, harmonizing with the fruity notes in the salad.
Chilled White Wine: The crispness of a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio brightens up your dining experience and enhances the flavors in the salad.

For a cozy evening, enjoy these pairings together, allowing each bite to tell a story of vibrant flavors and nourishing goodness.

How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad stays fresh and retains its delightful flavors.

Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad components (like quinoa and broccoli separately) for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the dressing and apples, as they won’t maintain their crisp texture.

Reheating: If refrigerated or frozen, serve chilled or allow the salad to come to room temperature before enjoying. If you choose to reheat the quinoa separately, ensure it’s just warmed through, not hot.

Enjoying Later: To keep it vibrant, mix in freshly toasted nuts just before serving. This adds that delightful crunch back to your Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad!

Make Ahead Options

These Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad components are perfect for make ahead meal prep! You can cook the quinoa and toast the nuts up to 3 days in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. To ensure the apples stay fresh, chop them just before serving, or toss them with lemon juice, which helps prevent browning. Assemble the salad by combining the quinoa, broccoli, feta, and dressing only when ready to enjoy. This approach means you can have a delicious, nutritious salad ready with minimal effort during busy weeknights, all while keeping each ingredient just as flavorful.

Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right broccoli for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for heads of broccoli that are dark green with tightly closed florets. Avoid any that have yellowing or dark spots all over, as these indicate that the broccoli is past its prime. Freshness is key for a crunchy and nutritious salad!

How should I store leftovers of the Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the freshness of the ingredients, particularly the apples. Just give it a good shake or stir before serving again!

Can I freeze the Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad?
The more the merrier! While the entire salad doesn’t freeze well due to the apples and dressing, you can freeze the individual components, like cooked quinoa and chopped broccoli, for up to 2 months. To do so, spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Avoid freezing the nuts and dressing, as they won’t maintain their texture.

What if my quinoa turns out mushy?
Sometimes this happens, but don’t worry! To prevent mushy quinoa in the future, ensure you’re using the right ratio of water (2:1) and let it simmer gently without lifting the lid. After cooking, let it cool and fluff with a fork. If it’s already mushy, try draining any excess water and mixing it with fresh, uncooked quinoa to balance the texture.

Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This salad is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for many diets. However, if you or your guests have nut allergies, you can simply omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for that crunch without the allergens. Always check labels for any store-bought ingredients too!

Can I add more protein to the Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad?
For sure! If you’re looking to increase the protein content, consider adding chickpeas or black beans. They can be mixed right into the salad without altering the flavor significantly. You could also toss in some grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier option!