Herb-Green Broccoli Apple Salad

Name: Herb-Green Broccoli Apple Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 large crisp apple, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Everyday Cooking

I absolutely love this Herb-Green Broccoli Apple Salad; it’s vibrant, crunchy, and packed with fresh flavors. The combination of broccoli and crisp apples creates a delightful contrast, while the herbs infuse each bite with aromatic freshness. It's not only visually appealing but also incredibly nutritious as a side or light main dish. I like to make this salad whenever I'm hosting friends or simply craving something refreshing and unique. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead for a hassle-free meal. Trust me, you’ll keep coming back for more!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:50:29.279Z

Creating this Herb-Green Broccoli Apple Salad was a delightfully refreshing experience. I knew I wanted something that packed a punch in both flavor and color. The method of quickly blanching the broccoli preserves its bright green hue while ensuring it's still crunchy. I found that combining it with sweet, tart apples worked wonders to elevate the salad, making it a standout dish at my last gathering.

One tip I discovered was to let the salad marinate for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors of the dressing to soak in, enhancing the salad even further. Plus, it looks gorgeous on the table, with all the contrasting colors mingling beautifully!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A refreshing crunch that invigorates your palate
Vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes
Herbs add a burst of flavor in every bite

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for bringing out the vibrant flavors in this Herb-Green Broccoli Apple Salad. Opt for organic broccoli if possible, as it tends to have a more intense flavor and crisp texture compared to conventional varieties. When selecting your apples, look for ones that are firm and juicy, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Their natural sweetness will balance beautifully with the savory elements of the salad.

Fresh herbs like parsley play a pivotal role in elevating the overall flavor profile of this dish. Not only do they add brightness, but they also provide a fragrant aroma that enhances the eating experience. If you don’t have parsley on hand, you can substitute it with fresh dill or basil for an intriguing twist that still complements the other salad ingredients.

Tips for Preparing and Storing

To ensure the best texture, blanch the broccoli until it’s bright green and just tender, approximately 1-2 minutes. You want to avoid overcooking, which can result in a mushy texture. The ice bath is essential; it locks in that vibrant color and crunchiness. After draining, allow the broccoli to dry completely before mixing it with the other ingredients to avoid a soggy salad.

This salad is a great make-ahead option. You can prepare the dressing and chop all of the salad ingredients a day in advance. Just keep the components separate until you’re ready to serve. If you plan to store it longer, consider adding the dressing just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the apples and walnuts.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
1 large crisp apple, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

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

Once you have all these ingredients, you’re ready to start making this delightful salad!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Herb-Green Broccoli Apple Salad:

Blanch the Broccoli

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for about 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Dressing

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

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, diced apple, red onion, parsley, and walnuts. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Serve

Let the salad sit for a few minutes for flavors to meld, then serve immediately or chill in the fridge before serving.

Your refreshing Herb-Green Broccoli Apple Salad is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating cheese such as feta or goat cheese, which pairs beautifully with the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal that offers both protein and refreshing flavors. It’s also a delightful side dish to serve with your favorite sandwiches or wraps. I often bring it to potlucks; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that adds a burst of color to any table.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider garnishing the salad with crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese, which can lend a creamy element that balances well with the crunch of the vegetables and the sweetness of the apples. Additionally, a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sunflower seeds can add a nutty depth to each bite.

Customizations and Variations

Feel free to get creative with this salad by adding ingredients like shredded carrots or chickpeas for added nutrients and texture. I sometimes toss in a handful of dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the apples and the earthiness of the walnuts.

If you're aiming for a lower-calorie option, you can replace the walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. You could also substitute the olive oil with a lighter option like lemon juice mixed with Dijon mustard for a tangy, lower-fat dressing that still packs a flavor punch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and dressing separately. Combine them just before serving for the freshest taste.

→ What other nuts can I use?

Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a different texture.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

While fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen broccoli if it is blanched and drained well.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is naturally vegan. Just ensure the honey is replaced with maple syrup if you want to keep it entirely plant-based.