Name: Broccoli Quinoa Salad (Vegan) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa (290g); 1 15 oz can white beans (cannellini), drained and rinsed (400g); 1 large broccoli crown, chopped (1 lb / 450g); 1 large carrot, peeled and shredded (125g); 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced (225g); 1 small shallot, minced (35g); 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (15ml); 4 tbsp red wine vinegar (60ml); 4 tbsp olive oil (60ml); 3 tbsp tahini (44ml); 3/4 tsp salt (4g); 2 tsp ground coriander (4g); 1-2 tbsp water (15-30ml) to thin dressing

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If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, nourishing salad that brings together crunchy veggies, protein-packed quinoa, and a creamy, tangy dressing, then the Broccoli Quinoa Salad (Vegan) Recipe is going to be your new favorite go-to. This dish perfectly balances fresh broccoli, tender white beans, and colorful bell peppers with an irresistible tahini and Dijon mustard dressing. It not only looks stunning on the plate but also tastes incredible, making it an ideal meal for lunch, dinner, or even as a hearty side at gatherings.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a brown cutting board placed on a white marbled surface. On the cutting board, there are two piles of chopped vegetables: the top pile consists of thinly sliced red bell peppers, while the bottom pile has shredded bright orange carrots. The red bell peppers slices are uneven in size with a crisp texture, and the shredded carrots have fine, thin strands. The cutting board surface has some moisture and small vegetable scraps scattered around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Broccoli Quinoa Salad (Vegan) Recipe shines with simple, wholesome ingredients that each add their own special touch, from vibrant colors and exciting textures to a variety of flavors that meld beautifully together.

Cooked quinoa (1 ½ cups): The fluffy, protein-rich base that holds everything together and adds a delightful nuttiness.
White beans (1 15 oz can, drained and rinsed): Creamy cannellini beans bring satisfying texture and extra plant-based protein.
Broccoli crown (1 large, chopped): The star vegetable, chopped into bite-sized pieces to add a fresh crunch and vibrant green color.
Large carrot (1, shredded): Sweet and crisp, the shredded carrot adds a splash of sunny orange and a pleasant bite.
Red bell pepper (1 medium, thinly sliced): Juicy and sweet, these thin strips add a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Shallot (1 small, minced): Provides a mild oniony kick that amps up the dressing’s complexity.
Dijon mustard (1 tbsp): Adds a sharp, tangy edge that elevates the dressing.
Red wine vinegar (4 tbsp): Gives the salad a bright acidity to balance the richness of tahini and olive oil.
Olive oil (4 tbsp): Smooth and fruity, it lends a luscious mouthfeel to the dressing.
Tahini (3 tbsp): This creamy sesame paste infuses the salad with depth and a slight nuttiness.
Salt (¾ tsp): Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
Ground coriander (2 tsp): Adds a warm, citrusy nuance that complements the veggies beautifully.
Water (1-2 tbsp): Used to thin out the dressing to the perfect consistency.

How to Make Broccoli Quinoa Salad (Vegan) Recipe

A glass measuring cup filled with a light brown, creamy sauce with a smooth but slightly bubbly texture, shown from above on a white marbled surface, the sauce filling most of the cup, with clear measurement markings visible on the sides of the cup photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Quinoa

Start by cooking your quinoa according to the package directions. Once tender, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains and set it aside to cool completely. This ensures your salad won’t get soggy and keeps each bite light and fluffy.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

While the quinoa cooks and cools, get your veggies ready. Chop the broccoli finely, including both stems and florets, so every bite has that signature crunch. Shred the carrot for sweetness and texture, and slice the red bell pepper into thin strips to add vibrant color and a juicy pop.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Dressing

Next, let’s bring everything together with a luscious dressing. In a bowl, combine minced shallot, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, olive oil, creamy tahini, salt, and ground coriander. Whisk steadily until smooth, adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to thin it out just right. This dressing is the magic that ties all the elements into one sensational salad.

Step 4: Toss or Layer the Salad

If you’re serving immediately, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped broccoli, shredded carrot, sliced pepper, and white beans in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss everything well to ensure every bite is coated. For extra flavor melding, chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Meal Prep Option

The salad is also perfect for meal prep! Layer bell pepper, carrot, beans, quinoa, then broccoli in three separate containers. Keep the dressing stored separately and add it just before eating. This way, the veggies stay crisp and fresh for up to three days, giving you a quick, delicious lunch or dinner option all week long.

How to Serve Broccoli Quinoa Salad (Vegan) Recipe

Garnishes

Bringing out the best presentation and flavor for your Broccoli Quinoa Salad (Vegan) Recipe can be as simple as adding a few garnishes. Consider sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a vibrant herbal note. Toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds add delightful crunch and additional nutrients, while a light drizzle of extra tahini or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten every bite.

Side Dishes

This salad stands wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think warm pita bread or crusty sourdough to scoop it up. For heartier meals, serve alongside grilled tofu or a smoky lentil dish to complement the fresh flavors and add heft to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling creative, try serving this Broccoli Quinoa Salad (Vegan) Recipe in individual mason jars for a colorful and portable lunch option. You can also use vibrant lettuce cups or even stuff it inside avocado halves for an eye-catching appetizer at parties. The beautiful mix of colors and textures makes it perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Broccoli Quinoa Salad (Vegan) Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve and toss everything together just before eating.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to its fresh veggies and dressing. Freezing tends to change the texture, especially of the broccoli and bell peppers, so it’s a good idea to prepare only what you’ll consume within a few days.

Reheating

Because this is a cold, fresh salad, reheating is generally not recommended. If you prefer a warm meal, you can gently heat the quinoa and beans separately and then toss with fresh veggies and dressing after warming.

FAQs

Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! While quinoa is perfect for its protein content and fluffy texture, you can substitute with couscous, bulgur, or even brown rice to suit your preferences or pantry stock.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep. Just remember to store the dressing separately and layer the veggies to keep everything fresh and crisp for up to three days.

Can I add nuts or seeds to this salad?

Definitely! Adding toasted nuts like almonds, walnuts, or seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower adds wonderful crunch and nutritional value, complementing the salad’s flavors perfectly.

How can I make the dressing less tangy?

If you prefer a milder dressing, reduce the amount of red wine vinegar or add a touch more tahini or olive oil to balance the acidity to your liking.

Can I substitute the white beans with another legume?

Yes, you can swap cannellini beans with chickpeas, black beans, or even lentils for a different texture and flavor, making the salad your own.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Quinoa Salad (Vegan) Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something both nourishing and incredibly tasty. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a make-ahead meal, or a colorful side dish, this salad always delivers with its vibrant crunch, creamy dressing, and satisfying protein punch. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for the recipe again and again.

Ingredients You'll Need