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Broccoli Quinoa Salad

Broccoli Quinoa Salad

The ultimate fresh dish to brighten your table, Broccoli Quinoa Salad is packed with vibrant flavors and crunchy textures. Perfect for meal prep or a light dinner, this salad combines broccoli, quinoa, and a creamy dressing that will have you craving more. Make it tonight for a satisfying and nutritious meal!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads, Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons nonfat milk or any milk you like
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest from about 1 medium lemon
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 small heads broccoli cut into bite-sized florets (about 6 cups)
  • ¾ cup uncooked quinoa
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt plus additional for seasoning
  • 1 small shallot finely chopped (about 1/3 cup)
  • ½ cup coarsely chopped fresh parsley
  • ¼ cup coarsely chopped fresh tarragon
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds or slivered almonds, toasted

Equipment

  • Grater
  • Large Pot
  • Chef's Knife
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Lemon Yogurt Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, milk, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and season with more salt as desired.
  2. Prepare the salad: While you are prepping the vegetables, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While it heats, fill a large bowl with ice water. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and cook until crisp-tender, about 1 minute. With a slotted spoon, transfer the broccoli to the ice water, leaving the boiling water in the pot. Drain the broccoli and transfer it to a kitchen towel–lined baking sheet. Lightly pat dry.
  3. Return the water in the pot to a boil. Add the quinoa and cook until slightly al dente, about 12 minutes. Drain through a fine-mesh sieve so that the quinoa does not slip through. Transfer the drained quinoa to a large bowl. Toss with 2 tablespoons yogurt dressing and remaining 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt.
  4. Add 1/4 cup of the dressing, broccoli, shallot, parsley, tarragon, and almonds. Toss to combine. Taste and add additional salt and/or pepper to taste. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Make it ahead: Dressing can be prepared up to 5 days in advance. Cover and chill until ready to use.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.