Roasted Broccoli Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that’s not only delicious but also bursting with nutrition, this Roasted Broccoli Salad is here to save the day! This recipe is one of my go-to favorites because it’s so simple yet incredibly satisfying. The combination of roasted veggies, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and a creamy tahini dressing makes this salad a showstopper at any gathering. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a quick meal prep for the week, this salad fits every occasion perfectly.

The best part? It’s packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the quinoa and chickpeas. I can guarantee that once you try it, you’ll be making this Roasted Broccoli Salad again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a tasty dish that everyone will love.
• Nutritional powerhouse: With broccoli, quinoa, and chickpeas, this salad is loaded with vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile flavors: The pumpkin seed dressing adds a unique twist that elevates the entire dish.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Roasted Broccoli Salad, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Each component brings its own unique flavor and texture, making this salad truly special!

For the Salad

• 1 head of broccoli
• 2 courgettes
• 2 x 400 g tin of chickpeas (2 x 14oz)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ cup quinoa (90g)
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds (30g)
• Handful of salad leaves or greens

For the Dressing

• ½ cup pumpkin seeds (60g)
• Large handful of coriander (about 20g)
• 2 garlic cloves
• ¼ cup tahini (60g)
• ⅓ cup water (80ml)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt & pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add some extra crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an added texture.
• Mix in seasonal veggies: Swap out courgettes for seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus.
• Change the greens: Use spinach or kale instead of regular salad leaves for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give the dressing an extra kick!

How to Make Roasted Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180C/350F. This sets the stage for perfectly roasted veggies!

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

Chop your broccoli and courgettes into bite-sized pieces. Drain and rinse the chickpeas before adding everything into a large roasting tin. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and oregano, then bake for about 25 minutes. Remember to give them a little shake halfway through cooking so they roast evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Quinoa

While your veggies are roasting away, grab a pan and add your quinoa along with a cup of water. Season well! Bring it to a boil, then cover and let it simmer for about 12-14 minutes until it’s fluffy. Cooking quinoa properly ensures it has that perfect light texture that’s so enjoyable in salads.

Step 4: Blend the Dressing

In a blender, combine all the dressing ingredients—pumpkin seeds, coriander, garlic cloves, tahini, water, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth! This dressing is rich in flavor and will beautifully coat your salad.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

Once everything is cooked and cooled slightly, add both your roasted vegetables and quinoa to a large serving bowl. Top it off with fresh salad leaves or greens along with more pumpkin seeds for crunch. Drizzle generously with your creamy dressing, mix well, and serve immediately!

Now you have a delightful Roasted Broccoli Salad that’s not just healthy but also bursting with flavors! Enjoy sharing this dish with friends and family—it’s sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Broccoli Salad

Creating a delicious Roasted Broccoli Salad is easy with just a few helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience!

• Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and make the dressing in advance. This not only saves time during meal prep but also allows the flavours to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap out or add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. This adds variety and maximizes the nutritional value of your salad.
• Add Crunch: For extra texture, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds on top right before serving. They bring a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the roasted veggies.
• Season Well: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Proper seasoning brings out the natural flavours of your ingredients, making each bite more enjoyable.
• Make it a Meal: To turn this salad into a wholesome main dish, add a protein source like grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas for an extra boost.

How to Serve Roasted Broccoli Salad

Serving your Roasted Broccoli Salad creatively can make it even more appealing. Here are some fun ideas!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil can brighten up the plate and add a burst of freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest will introduce a zesty kick that enhances the overall flavour profile.
• Crumbled Feta (or Vegan Alternative): Adding crumbled feta cheese (or its plant-based alternative) gives creaminess and richness that pairs wonderfully with the crunch of the salad.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light and fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a perfect companion, echoing the quinoa in your salad while adding another layer of flavour.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices offer a hearty side that is both filling and nutritious.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the roasted broccoli, creating a satisfying contrast in flavours.
• Grilled Tofu Skewers: Marinated and grilled tofu skewers provide an excellent plant-based protein option that complements the salad perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with this vibrant and nutritious Roasted Broccoli Salad! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Broccoli Salad is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or packed lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salad to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the quinoa and roasted vegetables separately.
• Allow them to cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Store for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat, warm the quinoa and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, checking frequently.
• Serve with freshly made dressing for extra flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Roasted Broccoli Salad that might help you out!

Can I make Roasted Broccoli Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast your vegetables and cook the quinoa in advance. Just store everything separately and combine when you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for pumpkin seeds in Roasted Broccoli Salad?

If you don’t have pumpkin seeds on hand, sunflower seeds or chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts would make great alternatives while still adding a satisfying crunch.

How long does Roasted Broccoli Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Remember to keep any dressing separate until you’re ready to eat!

Is Roasted Broccoli Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this vibrant Roasted Broccoli Salad! Its combination of flavors and textures makes it not just a side dish but a delightful main attraction on your table. Whether you’re prepping meals for the week or enjoying a cozy dinner with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!