Looking for a refreshing and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than our Creamy Brown Rice Apple and Broccoli Salad! This delightful recipe combines the wholesome goodness of brown rice with the crispness of fresh broccoli and the sweetness of diced apples, all brought together with a luscious Greek yogurt dressing. In just 30 minutes, you can create a vibrant salad that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also packs a punch of health benefits. Whether you're serving it as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a potluck favorite, this salad is sure to impress. Read on to discover how to whip up this deliciously creamy and satisfying salad!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 apple, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook brown rice according to package instructions. If using pre-cooked rice, ensure it is cooled to room temperature.
- Steam broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately rinse under cold water to stop cooking and preserve color and crispness.
- Dice the apple into small, uniform cubes, removing the core and seeds. To prevent browning, you can toss apple pieces with a small amount of lemon juice.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well-integrated.
- Add cooked brown rice, steamed broccoli florets, and diced apple to the yogurt dressing. Gently fold all ingredients together, ensuring even coating.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or honey as needed to balance flavors.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving chilled.
Tips
- Cook the Rice Ahead: To save time, consider cooking the brown rice in advance and storing it in the refrigerator. This way, you can quickly assemble the salad when you're ready to eat.
- Choose the Right Apple: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji. These apples add a refreshing sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Perfectly Steamed Broccoli: Be careful not to overcook the broccoli. Aim for a bright green color and a crisp-tender texture by steaming it for just 3-4 minutes, then immediately rinsing it under cold water.
- Customize the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing to suit your taste. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a bit of Dijon mustard for an extra kick.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes not only enhances the flavors but also makes it a refreshing dish, especially on warm days.
- Make It a Meal: To turn this salad into a hearty meal, consider adding some protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu. This will make it more filling and satisfying.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
