- Can I eat raw broccoli?
- Yes, but brief cooking makes it easier to digest and brightens the color. Raw can be causing bloating for some.
- Storage?
- Keeps 2-3 days in the fridge. Quinoa absorbs the dressing flavor even better by the next day.
Broccoli Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing
A meeting of superfoods. Quinoa's complete protein and broccoli's fiber make this salad a cornerstone of healthy eating. The secret is the broccoli texture: blanched just until crisp-tender to preserve vitamins and vivid color. A light lunch that won't weigh you down.
Ingredients
1
cup
Quinoa
1
head
Broccoli (florets only)
1
medium
Red Bell Pepper
1
medium
English Cucumber
2
tbsp
Fresh Parsley
2
tbsp
Olive Oil
2
tbsp
Lemon Juice
1
clove
Garlic
1
tsp
Salt
1/2
tsp
Black Pepper
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Pots: For quinoa and broccoli.
- Colander: Draining.
- Salad Bowl: Mixing.
Instructions
1
✓
Rinse quinoa thoroughly. Cook in salted water for 15 mins. Let cool.
Tip: Quinoa is done when the little white 'tails' (germs) detach and the grain is translucent.
2
✓
Boil broccoli florets in salted water for 2-3 minutes, then plunge immediately into ice water.
Tip: This is 'blanching': shock-cooling stops cooking, keeping broccoli crisp (al dente) and bright green.
3
✓
Dice pepper and cucumber. Crush garlic and whisk with oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper (the vinaigrette).
Tip: Shake vigorously to emulsify the oil and acid into a creamy dressing.
4
✓
In a large bowl, toss the cooled quinoa, drained broccoli, and raw vegetables with the dressing.
Tip: Ensure quinoa isn't hot, or it will cook the raw veggies.
5
✓
Stir in parsley and let rest 15 minutes before serving.
Tip: Marinating allows the grain to soak up the flavors.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 cup Quinoa
- 1 head Broccoli (florets only)
- 1 medium Red Bell Pepper
- 1 medium English Cucumber
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 clove Garlic
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper