Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than this Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad. It’s a delightful blend of crunchy broccoli, sweet honeycrisp apple, and hearty quinoa that makes it a favorite at our family gatherings. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual get-together with friends, this salad is always a hit and leaves everyone feeling satisfied.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for meal prep or a quick dinner. Plus, the combination of ingredients offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 28 minutes, you can have a delicious and healthy salad on your table.
• Nutritious & Wholesome: Packed with vitamins from the broccoli and apple, this salad is as good for you as it is tasty.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or swap the cheese to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch at the start of the week and enjoy it throughout, saving time on busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet crunch of apples mixed with the nutty flavor of quinoa—making it a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in the Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad. Gather these items for a fresh and vibrant dish:

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

For the Dressing

• 1 small lemon
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese (or extra sharp white cheddar)
• 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)

Optional Add-ins

• Dried cranberries

Variations

One of the best things about this Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to customize it:

• Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, try using extra sharp white cheddar for a different twist!
• Add More Protein: Toss in some chickpeas or cooked lentils to boost the protein content.
• Change Up the Nuts: Experiment with pecans or sunflower seeds instead of walnuts or almonds.
• Mix in Some Greens: Consider adding baby spinach or kale for an extra nutrient punch.

How to Make Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Start by rinsing your quinoa under cold water. This helps remove its natural coating called saponin, which can give it a bitter taste. Combine the rinsed quinoa and water in a pot over medium heat. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cover. Let it simmer for about 13 minutes until all the water is absorbed. Fluff it with a fork once done!

Step 2: Toast the Nuts

While your quinoa cooks, toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir them frequently until they turn golden brown and fragrant—this step brings out their rich flavor and adds crunch to your salad.

Step 3: Prepare Your Veggies

Chop your broccoli into bite-sized pieces and dice your honeycrisp apple. The combination of crunchy broccoli with sweet apple slices creates such an inviting texture contrast!

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, honey, sea salt, and black pepper. This dressing is where all those wonderful flavors come together—you’ll want every drop!

Step 5: Combine It All Together

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, toasted nuts, chopped broccoli, diced apple, and crumbled feta cheese (or cheddar). Drizzle with dressing and toss gently until everything is well-coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—this is your chance to make it just right!

This Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad not only looks vibrant but also tastes incredible! Serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as your main meal—it’s sure to become one of your favorites!

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

Creating the perfect Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad is a breeze when you follow these helpful tips!

• Use rinsed quinoa – Rinsing quinoa before cooking helps remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. This ensures your salad has a pleasant, nutty flavor.

• Toast your nuts – Toasting walnuts and almonds enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until golden and fragrant.

• Choose ripe apples – Opting for a honeycrisp apple not only gives your salad the perfect sweetness but also adds a juicy crunch that pairs beautifully with the broccoli and quinoa.

• Make it ahead of time – Preparing this salad in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an ideal meal prep option.

• Experiment with cheese alternatives – If you’re not a fan of feta, try using extra sharp white cheddar instead. It adds a different yet delicious flavor profile that complements the other ingredients wonderfully.

How to Serve Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad

Serving your Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this colorful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs – Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can brighten up the dish and add an extra layer of flavor.
• Sliced almonds on top – A sprinkle of sliced almonds provides an additional crunch and enhances the nutty aspect of the salad.
• Additional cranberries – Tossing in more dried cranberries not only makes for an appealing presentation but also brings extra sweetness and color.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: These are juicy and flavorful, making them a hearty companion to your light salad.

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the tartness of the apple, making for a comforting side.

• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is always welcome at any meal, offering lovely contrast to the freshness of the salad.

• Vegetable Stir-Fry: This colorful medley adds vibrant flavors and textures that complement your salad while keeping everything healthy and nutritious.

Enjoy crafting your Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad and serve it with these delightful accompaniments! Happy eating!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salad to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the salad into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you’ve added nuts or dried cranberries, consider keeping them separate until serving to maintain their crunch.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can freeze it:
• Place the cooled salad in a freezer-safe container.
• Label with the date and type of salad.
• Freeze for up to 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer your quinoa warm:
• Gently reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Alternatively, warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious salad? Here are some answers!

Can I make Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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

You can use extra sharp white cheddar or any crumbly cheese alternative that suits your taste preferences.

How do I ensure my quinoa is fluffy for Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad?

Rinse your quinoa under cold water before cooking. This removes bitterness and helps achieve a light, fluffy texture.

Is Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free since quinoa is naturally gluten-free. It’s perfect for those with gluten sensitivities!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes every bite a joy. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or looking for a refreshing side dish, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try, and feel free to share your thoughts! Happy cooking!