Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cook the Quinoa
- Combine quinoa, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is tender with visible little tails. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and spread on a plate to cool completely - about 15 minutes.
Prep the Vegetables and Fruit
- While quinoa cooks, cut broccoli into small bite-sized florets - you want pieces no larger than a nickel so they distribute evenly. Core and dice the apple into 1/2-inch pieces. If you're not assembling immediately, toss the apple with a splash of the dressing to prevent browning.
Make the Dressing
- In a small jar or bowl, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk vigorously until emulsified and slightly thickened - about 30 seconds.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, broccoli florets, diced apple, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Drizzle with about three-quarters of the dressing and toss thoroughly to coat. Taste and add more dressing if needed - the broccoli should be lightly glossy, not swimming.
- Gently fold in the crumbled feta. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let flavors meld. If making further ahead, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.
Notes
For the best texture, chop broccoli florets quite small - they should be tender-crisp and easy to eat in one bite. Substitute sharp cheddar or goat cheese for feta, or use toasted pumpkin seeds if sunflower seeds aren't on hand. This salad actually improves after an hour in the fridge as the dressing softens the raw broccoli slightly.
