Save 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 my go-to light meal when I need something fresh and satisfying, perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 1 large head broccoli: cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion: thinly sliced
- ½ cup shredded carrots:
- ¼ cup dried cranberries:
- ¼ cup roasted almonds: roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil:
- 1½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar:
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard:
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup:
- ½ teaspoon sea salt:
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper:
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 My family loves gathering around to enjoy this fresh salad especially during warm afternoons, turning a simple salad into a cherished tradition.
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.
Nutrition
Calories: 210 per serving. Total Fat: 12 g. Carbohydrates: 24 g. Protein: 4 g.
Save This salad is a perfect blend of textures and flavors that can brighten any meal with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQs
- → How should the broccoli be prepared?
Blanch the broccoli florets in salted boiling water for 1–2 minutes until vibrant green, then rinse under cold water and pat dry to stop cooking.
- → What type of apples work best?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their crisp texture and balanced sweet-tart flavor.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, grilled chicken or chickpeas can be included for an added protein boost.
- → What alternatives exist for the nuts used?
Walnuts or pecans can replace almonds for different nutty flavors and textures.
- → Is it better served chilled or immediately?
Serving immediately offers fresh crunch, but chilling for 30 minutes allows flavors to meld and intensify.
- → What kind of dressing is used?
A blend of extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper creates a zesty and balanced dressing.