Broccoli and Apple Quinoa Salad

Name: Broccoli and Apple Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups water; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 large apple, diced; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Spring Greens

I love making this Broccoli and Apple Quinoa Salad for its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. The combination of crunchy broccoli, sweet apples, and hearty quinoa creates a satisfying dish full of texture. It’s perfect for lunch or as a side for dinner. I often prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still enjoying a refreshing taste. This salad truly highlights how nutritious ingredients can come together to create something wonderful.

Created by

The Chefalexcooks Team

Last updated on 2026-02-11T13:30:28.534Z

Creating this Broccoli and Apple Quinoa Salad was a delightful experience that taught me just how versatile quinoa can be as a base for salads. I wanted to combine sweet and savory elements, so I decided to pair the nutty flavor of quinoa with fresh, crunchy broccoli and tart apples. The result was a colorful, nutritious dish that's not only visually appealing but also packed with different textures and tastes.

What makes this salad stand out is the dressing. By mixing a simple vinaigrette with a hint of honey, it complements the greens and fruits without overpowering them. I find that letting the salad sit for a bit after mixing allows all the ingredients to absorb the flavors, making each bite even more delicious. Trust me; you’ll want to make this salad again and again!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Packed with nutrients and vibrant colors
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

Ingredients

For the Salad

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
2 cups broccoli florets
1 large apple, diced
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Blanch the Broccoli

In a pot of boiling salted water, add the broccoli florets. Blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and set aside.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, blanched broccoli, diced apple, walnuts, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.

Serve

Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding dried cranberries or sunflower seeds. You can also substitute the apple for pear for a different twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with farro or bulgur for a different texture.

→ How long can I store this salad?

The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but the apples may brown.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is gluten-free as quinoa is naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I use a different dressing?

Absolutely! You can use any vinaigrette or dressing of your choice.