Broccoli Apple Hot Salad

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 for busy weeknights when I want something light yet satisfying.

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.

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This salad always sparks joy at family lunches, packed with colors and fresh flavors everyone loves.

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

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Enjoy this revitalizing salad as a quick meal or side dish perfect for any occasion.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I keep the broccoli vibrant and crisp?

Blanch the broccoli in boiling salted water for 1–2 minutes, then immediately cool it under cold water to stop cooking. This preserves its bright color and crisp texture.

→ Can I substitute the nuts in this dish?

Yes, you can swap almonds for walnuts or pecans based on your preference or availability. Each nut adds its unique flavor and texture.

→ What dressing complements this broccoli and apple mix?

A simple vinaigrette made from extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper balances the freshness with tangy and sweet notes.

→ Is it better to serve this salad chilled or immediately?

Serving immediately preserves the fresh crunch, but chilling the salad for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully for deeper taste.

→ What proteins pair well with this dish?

Grilled chicken or chickpeas make excellent additions to boost protein while maintaining the salad’s fresh and light character.