Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dish that perfectly balances freshness and nutrition—the Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad! This vibrant salad is not only a feast for the eyes with its colorful ingredients, but it also boasts a wonderful combination of textures and flavors. The nutty quinoa pairs beautifully with crisp apples and tender broccoli, while dried cranberries add a hint of sweetness. Toss in some crunchy walnuts and creamy feta, and you’ve got a salad that’s bursting with flavor and fun!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 large apple, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
- While the quinoa is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until just tender, approximately 3-4 minutes, so they retain their vibrant color and crunch.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, steamed broccoli, diced apple, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and diced red onion. The colors and textures will make your heart sing!
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper, creating a lovely dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring every morsel is coated in that delicious mixture.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy a salad that’s as beautiful as it is tasty!
Notes or Tips
For an extra crunch, feel free to substitute the walnuts with your favorite nuts, such as almonds or pecans. If you prefer a different cheese, goat cheese works wonderfully too! This salad can be made ahead of time; just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh.
Cooking Techniques
Steaming the broccoli is key to keeping its bright green color and crispness. Be careful not to overcook it! Rinsing the quinoa before cooking helps to remove its natural coating, known as saponin, which can taste bitter. Fluffing the quinoa after cooking with a fork gives it a nice texture and helps it mix well with the other ingredients.
FAQ
Can I serve this salad warm?
Absolutely! This salad can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it perfect for any season.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad will remain fresh for about 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Just keep it in an airtight container.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Certainly! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tofu would be fantastic additions for an extra protein boost.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad is an easy and nutritious option that’s perfect for meal prep, gatherings, or simply a refreshing lunch. With its delightful combination of flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Get ready to be transported to salad bliss with every bite!