When it comes to making a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, salads are a fantastic option. However, the word “salad” often conjures images of leafy greens and a few slices of tomato drenched in dressing. Let’s break that mold with a recipe that’s as delightful to the palate as it is to the eyes – the Chickpea Apple Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing.
This salad is a medley of textures and tastes, combining the crunch of fresh vegetables and nuts with the sweetness of fruits and honey. It’s a perfect dish for those who are looking for a fulfilling meal that’s loaded with nutrients and flavor. Let’s dive into the details.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 head broccoli, very finely chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups diced Honeycrisp apples (from about 2 medium Honeycrisp apples)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (or 1 cup matchstick cut carrots)
- 1/3 cup diced green onion
- 1/3 cup dried cherries
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup chopped flat leaf parsley
For the Honey Dijon Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 and 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste
Directions to Salad Perfection:
- Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the finely chopped broccoli, drained chickpeas, diced apples, shredded carrots, diced green onion, dried cherries, chopped pecans, and parsley.
- Whisk Up the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Season this dressing with a bit of freshly ground salt and pepper to suit your taste.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle your freshly made dressing over the salad. Toss everything together until the salad ingredients are thoroughly coated with the dressing. This ensures every bite is infused with the delicious flavors of your Honey Dijon Dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish your salad with a handful of additional dried cherries and chopped pecans for an extra crunch. This salad is versatile; enjoy it immediately or let it sit in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and tasty for up to 5 days, making it a perfect prep-ahead meal for busy weeks.
Prep Time to Enjoy:
The entire recipe, from start to finish, takes just about 20 minutes. It yields 4 servings, each loaded with a balance of flavors and textures, amounting to approximately 410 kcal per serving.
Whether you’re looking for a side dish that will impress at a potluck or a main meal that keeps your nutrition in check, this Chickpea Apple Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing is a surefire hit. Its combination of ingredients not only makes for a delicious eating experience but also brings a colorful and inviting look to any dining table.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful symphony of flavors and textures in your mouth. It’s a testament to how creative and satisfying salad-making can be!
Chickpea Apple Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing
Ingredients:
1 head broccoli, very finely chopped
1 (15 ounce) can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
2 cups diced honeycrisp apples (from about 2 medium honeycrisp apples)
1 cup shredded carrots (or 1 cup matchstick cut carrots)
1/3 cup diced green onion
1/3 cup dried cherries
1/3 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup chopped flat leaf parsley
For the dressing:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 and 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
1/2 tablespoon honey
1 clove of garlic, minced
Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine broccoli, chickpeas, apples, carrots, green onion, dried cherries, pecans, and parsley.
For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss to combine thoroughly.
Garnish with additional cherries and pecans before serving. Can be served immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Kcal: 410 | Servings: 4 servings