Broccoli Apple Quinoa Salad for Easy Meal Prep
A crisp, refreshing salad featuring broccoli, sweet apple, quinoa, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a colorful side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or vegetable broth
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 large apple, diced
1/4 cup toasted almonds, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly and cook with water or broth until fluffy.
- Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to ice bath.
- Dice apple and toss with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Toast almonds in a dry skillet until golden.
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for dressing.
- Combine quinoa, broccoli, apple, almonds, and cranberries in a large bowl.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss gently. Sprinkle with parsley.
Notes
For best flavor, allow salad to rest 15–20 minutes before serving. Adjust dressing to taste.