Broccoli Apple Super Salad

Name: Broccoli Apple Super Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 large apple, cored and diced; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup raisins; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Lunch Recipes

I love making this Broccoli Apple Super Salad as it's both refreshing and packed with nutrients. The combination of crisp broccoli, sweet apples, and crunchy nuts creates a delightful texture that I crave. Each bite is a burst of flavor, enhanced by the zesty dressing that complements the natural sweetness of the apples. It's a perfect dish for gatherings or a light meal at home, making me feel revitalized and satisfied all at once.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-11T15:06:28.357Z

When I first tried this Broccoli Apple Super Salad, I was surprised by how well the flavors blended together. The crispness of the broccoli pairs so well with the juicy apples, while the nuts add a fantastic crunch. I discovered that to enhance the dressing's flavor, letting it sit for a few minutes allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a more vibrant taste.

This salad has become my go-to for potlucks and family meals because it is not only quick to prepare, but also appeals to so many palates. Also, the bright colors make it visually appealing, which is a bonus!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Crisp broccoli and sweet apple contrast perfectly
Nutty flavor from walnuts adds great texture
Light and refreshing, yet satisfying
Quick to prepare, ideal for busy weekdays

      

Exploring the Ingredients

The star of the Broccoli Apple Super Salad is undoubtedly the fresh broccoli florets. Choose bright green, firm florets for the best crunch and flavor. They not only provide a rich source of vitamins K and C but also a satisfying textural contrast against the crisp apple and creamy dressing. If you prefer a milder flavor, lightly steaming the broccoli for 2-3 minutes can create a different texture without losing its vibrant color and nutrients.

Apples add a natural sweetness that balances the salad beautifully. I recommend using a tart variety like Granny Smith or a sweet one like Fuji for diversity in flavor. Dice them right before serving to keep them from browning. If you're preparing the salad ahead of time, consider adding a bit of lemon juice to the apple pieces for extra freshness and to prevent oxidation.

The walnuts not only bring a crunchy texture but also healthy fats and protein. Toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until fragrant can intensify their flavor significantly. If you have nut allergies or would like a variation, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead, which will provide a similar crunch without compromising the taste.

Dressing Tips and Variations

The dressing brings all the ingredients together, and it's important to whisk it until it’s well combined, creating an emulsion that clings to the salad. You can adjust the honey based on how sweet your apples are; less sweet apples might require more honey. A dash of mustard can also add a zesty twist, enhancing the overall depth of flavor. Remember to taste the dressing before adding it to the salad to make sure the balance of acidity and sweetness is just right.

If you're looking to make the salad vegan, simply substitute the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup, which will keep the sweetness intact while catering to a plant-based diet. Additionally, for a creamier dressing, consider adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt, which provides a tangy richness and boosts the protein content even further.

To prepare this salad in advance, keep the dressing separate and combine it with the other ingredients just before serving. This prevents the broccoli from wilting and keeps the apples crisp. The salad can last in the fridge for about 2 days, but freshness is key for maintaining that desirable crunch throughout.

Ingredients

Gather the fresh ingredients for this vibrant salad!

Salad Ingredients

2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 large apple, cored and diced
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

Dressing Ingredients

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

Mix these ingredients together for a deliciously unique salad!

Instructions

Let's prepare this fresh and healthy salad!

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced apple, chopped walnuts, raisins, and red onion.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Enjoy your Broccoli Apple Super Salad as a nutritious meal or side!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can let the salad sit for about 10 minutes after tossing with the dressing. This allows the flavors to develop even more!

Serving Ideas

This salad is versatile and can be served as a main dish or a side dish. For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas on top. The protein will complement the flavors while making it more satisfying. Alternatively, pairing it with a light sandwich or wrap can create a perfect lunch combo.

For a visual appeal, consider adding thinly sliced bell peppers or carrot ribbons for a splash of color. Presentation matters, especially for gatherings, so tossing the salad in a large bowl and serving it with a sprinkle of feta cheese on top can elevate it. The salty tang from feta will harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.

During holiday seasons, this salad can be a fantastic option amidst heavier dishes. Its lightness and refreshing taste can cleanse the palate, making it an interesting alternative for festive table spreads. Consider adding cranberries as a seasonal twist, complementing the existing ingredients with festive flair.

Scaling and Storage

One of the great things about this Broccoli Apple Super Salad is how easily it can be scaled up or down. If you're hosting a large gathering, simply multiply the ingredient quantities. For each additional batch, keep the ratios consistent to maintain the balance of flavors. This salad can easily serve from 2 up to 10 guests with minimal adjustments.

When storing leftovers, ensure you place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. However, it's best to consume it within 48 hours for optimal texture and flavor. To keep leftovers fresh, store the dressing separately and combine before eating, maintaining the crunchiness throughout the storage period.

If you want to prep ingredients ahead of time, keep chopped apples in lemon water to prevent browning and prepare the dressing early on, keeping it in the fridge until required. This makes assembly super quick the next day, which is perfect for busy lifestyles while still enjoying a healthy meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best to assemble and add the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh.

→ What type of apple is best for this salad?

A crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji works best, offering the right balance of sweetness and texture.

→ Can I substitute walnuts?

Absolutely! You can use any nuts you prefer, such as almonds or pecans, for a different flavor and texture.

→ Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Yes, this salad is completely vegan if you use a vegan-friendly honey substitute or eliminate it from the dressing.