Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is the perfect balance of savory and sweet. The broccoli provides a hearty crunch, while the thinly sliced apple adds a touch of sweetness and crispness. The dried cranberries bring a burst of tartness, and the toasted slivered almonds give the salad a satisfying crunch. The maple dijon dressing is simple yet flavorful, making this a go-to dish for both everyday meals and special gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 cups broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, grated
- ¼ cup scallions, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ⅓ cup slivered almonds, toasted
For the Dressing:
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, thinly sliced apple, grated carrot, sliced scallions, dried cranberries, and toasted slivered almonds.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Serve immediately, or let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. It’s also great after chilling in the fridge for 10-15 minutes for a cool, refreshing dish.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 4 people. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and no cooking is required, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare.
Variations
- Add protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even hard-boiled eggs to the salad.
- Add more nuts: If you like more crunch, you can add walnuts or pecans in place of or in addition to the slivered almonds.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for some heat.
- Vegan option: This recipe is already vegan, but you can also swap the maple syrup for agave nectar if preferred.
Storage/Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The apples and cranberries may soften over time, but the flavors will continue to develop.
FAQs
1. Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just add the dressing and toss the salad just before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of nut instead of almonds?
Yes, you can use walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds as a substitute for slivered almonds.
3. How do I toast the slivered almonds?
To toast the almonds, simply heat a dry skillet over medium heat, add the slivered almonds, and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Can I use another sweetener instead of maple syrup?
Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or coconut sugar for a similar sweetness.
5. How long will this salad last in the fridge?
This salad can last up to 2 days in the fridge, but the apples may soften, and the dressing may thicken a bit over time. For the freshest taste, it’s best to eat it within 1 day.
6. Can I make this salad spicy?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper to the dressing for a spicy kick.
7. Can I use a different mustard for the dressing?
Yes, you can use yellow mustard or whole grain mustard if you prefer a different flavor profile.
8. Can I add more fruits to this salad?
Yes! You can add fruits like grapes, pears, or pomegranate seeds for added sweetness and color.
9. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
10. Can I substitute the broccoli with another vegetable?
Yes, you can substitute the broccoli with cauliflower or kale for a different flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Apple Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy ingredients. The fresh vegetables, crisp apple, dried cranberries, and toasted almonds make it a visually appealing and flavorful dish. The maple dijon dressing ties everything together with its tangy and slightly sweet flavor, making it a great addition to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or a light main course, this salad is sure to be a hit!
Print
Broccoli Crunch Salad with Apples and Almonds
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Broccoli Apple Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing combines crunchy broccoli, sweet apples, and tangy dressing, making it a delightful and nutritious side dish or light meal. Topped with dried cranberries and toasted slivered almonds, it’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will impress at any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
4 cups broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 apple, thinly sliced
1 carrot, grated
¼ cup scallions, thinly sliced
¼ cup dried cranberries
⅓ cup slivered almonds, toasted
For the Dressing:
⅓ cup olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
-
Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, thinly sliced apple, grated carrot, sliced scallions, dried cranberries, and toasted slivered almonds.
-
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
-
Assemble the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
-
Serve: Serve immediately, or let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. It’s also great after chilling in the fridge for 10-15 minutes for a cool, refreshing dish.
Notes
Add protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs to the salad.
Add more nuts: If you like more crunch, use walnuts or pecans in place of or in addition to slivered almonds.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for some heat.
Vegan option: This recipe is already vegan, but you can swap the maple syrup for agave nectar if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Light Meal
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Vegan
