Description
This Broccoli-Cheddar Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish combining fluffy quinoa, crunchy broccoli, sweet apples and dates, sharp cheddar, and toasted almonds. Tossed in a tangy honey-mustard dressing with Dijon and apple cider vinegar, this salad offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, perfect for a wholesome lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Quinoa and Vegetables
- 1 cup dry quinoa, rinsed
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt (for cooking quinoa)
- 4 cups finely chopped broccoli florets (about 8 ounces)
- 1 cup diced Honeycrisp apple (or apple variety of choice)
Salad Add-ins
- 1/2 cup grated or cubed sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup roasted, salted almonds, coarsely chopped
- 4 pitted dates, finely chopped
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh chives
Honey-Mustard Dressing
- 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 Tbsp apple-cider vinegar
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: Combine quinoa, 2 cups of water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor), and 1/2 tsp salt in a medium pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork.
- Combine Quinoa and Broccoli: Place chopped broccoli in a large bowl and season with a pinch of salt. Add the hot quinoa and toss to combine. Let it sit for about 15 minutes so the residual heat will gently steam and soften the broccoli.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a glass jar or large measuring cup, combine Dijon mustard, apple-cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Shake or whisk vigorously to emulsify. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, black pepper, or honey if desired.
- Assemble the Salad: To the broccoli-quinoa mixture, add diced apples, cheddar cheese, roasted almonds, chopped dates, and fresh chives. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
Notes
- Vegetable broth can be used instead of water to cook quinoa for enhanced flavor.
- Allowing the hot quinoa to sit with broccoli softens the broccoli slightly while retaining its crunch.
- Adjust honey in the dressing to taste, depending on preferred sweetness.
- Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: broccoli cheddar quinoa salad, quinoa salad, vegetarian salad, healthy lunch, honey mustard dressing, apple cheddar salad
