Save to Pinterest A vibrant, fresh salad featuring crisp broccoli and sweet-tart apple, tossed in a zesty dressing for a nutrient-packed, energizing meal.
This salad quickly became a favorite during warm days when I crave something light yet satisfying. I love how easily it comes together and how versatile it is with different nuts or dressings.
Ingredients
- Broccoli: 1 large head, cut into bite-sized florets
- Apple: 1 large (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- Red onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Shredded carrots: ½ cup
- Dried cranberries: ¼ cup
- Roasted almonds: ¼ cup, roughly chopped
- Sunflower seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tablespoons
- Apple cider vinegar: 1½ tablespoons
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Honey or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon
- Sea salt: ½ teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 1-2 minutes until vibrant green and just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Pat dry.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine blanched broccoli, apple slices, red onion, shredded carrots, and dried cranberries.
- Step 3:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Step 4:
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss to evenly coat.
- Step 5:
- Add chopped almonds and sunflower seeds just before serving for crunch. Toss gently and serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for more flavor.
Save to Pinterest This salad has become a staple in our household, often enjoyed during family picnics and weekend lunches.
Notes
For extra protein, add grilled chicken or chickpeas. Substitute walnuts or pecans for almonds if preferred. Try adding crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy touch. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with this salad.
Required Tools
Medium pot, large mixing bowl, small bowl or jar, whisk, knife, cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210, Total Fat: 12 g, Carbohydrates: 24 g, Protein: 4 g (per serving)
Save to Pinterest This refreshing salad is perfect for anytime you want a quick healthy meal that brings tons of flavor and texture.
Ask About This Recipe
- → How should the broccoli be prepared for the salad?
Blanch the broccoli florets in salted boiling water for 1-2 minutes until vibrant green and just tender, then rinse under cold water to halt cooking.
- → What kind of apples work best in this salad?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their firm texture and balance of tart and sweet flavors.
- → Can I substitute the nuts in this salad?
Yes, walnuts or pecans can be used instead of almonds for a different crunch and flavor profile.
- → How can the dressing be adjusted for sweetness?
Adjust the honey or maple syrup amount to taste, adding more for a sweeter touch or less for a tangier dressing.
- → Is it better to serve this salad chilled or immediately?
It can be served right away for freshness or chilled for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld more deeply.
- → What protein options pair well with this salad?
Grilled chicken or chickpeas add protein and complement the fresh flavors nicely.