Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the crunch of fresh vegetables, the sweetness of apples, and the wholesome goodness of quinoa. This salad is not only colorful but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal or side dish.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to make and is a great way to enjoy a variety of ingredients in one bowl. It is perfect for busy weeknights, picnics, or potlucks. Plus, it is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the feta cheese. The combination of flavors and textures makes this salad satisfying and tasty.
How to Make Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 crisp apple (like Honeycrisp or Fuji), diced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped broccoli, diced apple, cranberries, walnuts, red onion, and feta cheese if using.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Serve cold or at room temperature for a refreshing crunch.
How to Serve Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad
This salad can be served as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or other mains. You can also enjoy it as a healthy lunch option. The vibrant colors make it inviting on any table.
How to Store Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad
To store this salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep the salad extra crunchy, consider adding the nuts and apple just before serving.
Tips to Make Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad
- Make sure the quinoa is cooked and cooled before mixing it with other ingredients to prevent wilting.
- For extra flavor, toast the walnuts or pecans before adding them to the salad.
- Adjust the dressing according to your taste preference; add more honey for sweetness or more lemon juice for tang.
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding other ingredients like chickpeas for protein, carrots for extra crunch, or swapping out the nuts for seeds if you have nut allergies.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Just remember to add the nuts and apple right before serving to keep them fresh.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free quinoa, this salad is gluten-free.
3. Can I omit the feta cheese?
Yes, the salad will still taste great without feta. You can also use a vegan cheese if you want to keep it vegan.
