In the quest for a salad that breaks the mold, we stumble upon a delightful combination that marries the earthy tones of chickpeas and broccoli with the crisp sweetness of apples. This Chickpea Apple Broccoli Salad isn’t just a side dish; it’s a statement. Coupled with a zesty Honey Dijon Dressing, it transforms into a meal that’s as satisfying to the palate as it is nutritious. Let’s dive into the details of this recipe that promises a refreshing break from the ordinary.

Ingredients That Speak Volumes

At the heart of this salad lies:

• 1 head broccoli, very finely chopped, forming a crunchy base.
• 1 (15 ounce) can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained, adding a creamy texture and a protein punch.
• 2 cups diced honeycrisp apples (from about 2 medium apples), introducing a juicy sweetness.
• 1 cup shredded carrots (or matchstick cut), adding color and fiber.
• 1/3 cup diced green onion, for a sharp, fresh bite.
• 1/3 cup dried cherries, bringing a chewy, tart sweetness.
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans, for a nutty crunch.
• 1/2 cup chopped flat leaf parsley, for a hint of freshness.

The dressing, a crucial component, is made of:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil and 1 and 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, creating a smooth base.
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard and 1/2 tablespoon honey, for a sweet and sharp contrast.
• 1 clove of garlic, minced, to add a punch of flavor.
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste, for seasoning.

Assembling a Masterpiece

The preparation of this salad is as straightforward as its ingredients are vibrant:

1. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the broccoli, chickpeas, apples, carrots, green onion, dried cherries, pecans, and parsley. This mix is already a feast for the eyes.
2. Whisk Up the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Whisk until well blended, and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
3. Dress and Toss: Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing it well to ensure every bite is as flavorful as the last. The dressing not only adds taste but also a beautiful sheen that makes the salad even more inviting.
4. Garnish and Serve: For an added touch, garnish with extra cherries and pecans before serving. This salad can be enjoyed immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.

Nutritional Information and Serving Suggestions

With a total preparation time of just 20 minutes, this salad serves four, providing approximately 410 kcal per serving. It’s a powerhouse of nutrition, thanks to the diverse range of ingredients.

This Chickpea Apple Broccoli Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing is more than just a dish; it’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a healthy snack, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try and experience the joy of eating a salad that’s anything but ordinary.

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