Broccoli Apple Salad with Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing

If you’re looking for a vibrant, crunchy salad that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, look no further than this Broccoli Apple Salad with Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing. This delightful dish is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, combining crisp broccoli, tart apples, and a creamy dressing that will have you coming back for seconds. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it also offers a medley of textures and tastes that make it an ideal side dish for any meal or a light lunch on its own.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply need a wholesome meal prep option, this salad is sure to impress. The star of the show is undoubtedly the creamy lemon-tahini dressing, which adds a zesty kick that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully. Let’s dive into the reasons why you should make this salad, a handy shopping list, and the step-by-step process to whip it up effortlessly.

Top Reasons to Make Broccoli Apple Salad with Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing

• Nutritious and Wholesome: Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins, and apples offer fiber and antioxidants, making this salad a healthful choice.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have this salad ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match with seasonal fruits or nuts based on your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for lunches throughout the week.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of creamy dressing and crunchy veggies will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Shopping List

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tahini (sesame seed paste)
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 medium head broccoli (about 1 pound, cut into bite-size pieces)
• 3 medium apples (Gala, Pink Cripps, or Fuji recommended, cored and cut into bite-size pieces)
• 1/2 small red onion (diced, about 1/3 cup)
• 1/3 cup golden raisins (dried cranberries also work)
• 1/4 cup candied sliced almonds (plain sliced almonds, unsalted pepitas, or unsalted sunflower seeds can substitute)

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Mixing Bowl: For combining the salad ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend the dressing ingredients smoothly.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the broccoli, apples, and onions.
• Measuring Spoons: To ensure precise measurements for the dressing.

Step-by-Step: Broccoli Apple Salad with Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of tahini, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Whisk together until the mixture is creamy and well-blended.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables and Fruits

While the dressing is coming together, rinse and cut the broccoli into bite-size pieces. Core and slice the apples into bite-size chunks, and dice the red onion.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli, apple pieces, diced red onion, and golden raisins. Toss gently to combine.

Step 4: Add the Dressing

Pour the creamy lemon-tahini dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything together until the dressing evenly coats the broccoli and apples.

Step 5: Add the Crunch!

Sprinkle in the candied sliced almonds (or your choice of nuts/seeds) and give it one last gentle toss to incorporate the crunch.

Step 6: Serve or Chill

You can serve the salad immediately or cover and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Health-Conscious Tweaks

• Use low-sodium soy sauce instead of Dijon mustard for a different flavor profile.
• Substitute agave syrup for maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
• For a nut-free version, use sunflower seeds instead of almonds.
• Add extra greens like spinach or kale for additional nutrients.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Too Dry: If the salad seems dry, add a bit more olive oil or lemon juice to the dressing.
• Overly Sweet: If the dressing is too sweet for your taste, reduce the maple syrup by half and adjust according to preference.
• Brown Apples: To prevent the apples from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice right after cutting.
• Unbalanced Flavors: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the dressing before adding it to the salad for a perfect blend of flavors.

Save It for Later

This Broccoli Apple Salad with Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious on the second day! However, if you want to maintain the crunchiness of the nuts, add them just before serving.

Quick Q&A

Can I use other vegetables in this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to include other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.

Is the tahini dressing vegan?

Yes, the tahini dressing is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.

What if I don’t have tahini?

If tahini is not available, you can substitute it with almond butter or peanut butter, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.

Serve with These

• Grilled Chicken – A delicious protein pairing that complements the salad nicely.
• Quinoa Pilaf – A hearty grain dish that adds a nutritious boost.
• Herbed Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing!
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes – A sweet and savory side that goes hand-in-hand with this salad.

That’s a Wrap

This Broccoli Apple Salad with Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing is not only a vibrant addition to your meal but also a nourishing one. With its fresh ingredients and zesty dressing, it’s bound to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re preparing it for a gathering or as part of your weekly meal prep, this salad is sure to impress with its delightful flavors and textures. So grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this refreshing dish that celebrates the best of what nature has to offer!