Broccoli Apple Medley Platter
Highlighted under: Nourish & Refresh Recipes
I absolutely love putting together vibrant, nutritious platters that not only please the eye but also tantalize the taste buds. The Broccoli Apple Medley Platter is one of my favorites because it combines the crunch of fresh broccoli with the sweetness of crisp apples. This dish is not only a treat for gatherings and parties but also makes for a wholesome midday snack. With a light dressing to enhance the flavors, it’s a versatile addition to any table setting, and I guarantee it will be a hit with everyone!
When I first combined broccoli and apples, I wasn’t sure how the flavors would play together. To my delight, the combination was refreshing and surprisingly balanced. The slight bitterness of the broccoli harmonizes with the sweet-tart juiciness of the apples, creating a delightful contrast that I just can’t get enough of.
One key tip I’d suggest is to slice the apples right before serving to keep them from browning. A light drizzle of lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps to maintain that beautiful color. Trust me, this platter will disappear faster than you can imagine!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Crunchy texture of fresh broccoli combined with sweet apples
- Bright, colorful presentation perfect for any occasion
- Healthy ingredients make it a guilt-free indulgence
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Selecting the right type of apple is crucial for this platter. I recommend using Fuji or Honeycrisp apples due to their sweet flavor and crisp texture. These varieties not only add sweetness but also maintain their integrity when sliced, preventing them from becoming mealy. If you prefer a tarter taste, varieties such as Granny Smith can provide a delightful contrast to the sweet raisins and honey dressing.
Fresh broccoli is the star of this dish, and its quality can significantly impact the overall flavor. Look for vibrant green florets that are firm to the touch. Avoid broccoli with yellowing or wilting leaves, as this indicates age. For best texture, steam the broccoli lightly if you prefer a more tender bite; aim for just 2-3 minutes of steaming to preserve its bright color and crunch.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the Broccoli Apple Medley Platter a few hours ahead of serving. Store the broccoli and apple mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. However, I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy. You can also make the dressing ahead of time; it will stay fresh for up to a week in a sealed jar in the fridge, but be sure to whisk it again before using.
If you want to store leftover platter components, keep the apples from browning by tossing them in a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the container. That way, any remaining salad can be enjoyed the next day while still looking vibrant and fresh. The dressing can also be used for other salads or as a marinade, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Platter
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 medium apples, sliced (preferably Fuji or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
For the Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh broccoli florets, apple slices, chopped walnuts, raisins, and shredded carrots.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Combine and Serve
Drizzle the dressing over the broccoli and apple mixture, toss gently to combine, and serve immediately on a platter.
Enjoy your healthy and colorful platter!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the platter with your favorite nuts, seeds, or even add some cheese for extra flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
For an added flavor boost, consider incorporating finely chopped herbs such as basil or mint into the broccoli apple mixture. These fresh herbs can elevate the dressing's taste and add a refreshing aroma to the platter. However, use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the natural flavors of the apples and broccoli. A teaspoon of fresh herbs can go a long way in enhancing this dish's overall profile.
Another option is to add a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese crumbles on top before serving. The creamy, tangy flavor of the cheese complements the sweetness of the apples and the crunch of the broccoli beautifully. Just keep in mind that these additions will shift the dish from vegan-friendly to vegetarian, so consider your guests' dietary preferences when making this modification.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Broccoli Apple Medley Platter on a large, decorative serving tray, allowing the colorful ingredients to shine. To elevate the presentation further, garnish with additional walnuts or a sprinkle of sesame seeds which not only enhances texture but also adds a visual appeal. This platter can also double as a centerpiece for your table setting.
To make this dish even more filling as a main course, you can add protein such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even shredded turkey. These additions provide a satisfying balance to the sweetness of the apples and will surely make it more substantial, whether it be for a lunch or light dinner.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this platter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and fruits in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.
→ What variations can I try?
You can substitute apples with pears or even add some berries for a different flavor profile.
→ Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as long as you use a plant-based honey alternative.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the apples may brown slightly.
Broccoli Apple Medley Platter
I absolutely love putting together vibrant, nutritious platters that not only please the eye but also tantalize the taste buds. The Broccoli Apple Medley Platter is one of my favorites because it combines the crunch of fresh broccoli with the sweetness of crisp apples. This dish is not only a treat for gatherings and parties but also makes for a wholesome midday snack. With a light dressing to enhance the flavors, it’s a versatile addition to any table setting, and I guarantee it will be a hit with everyone!
What You'll Need
For the Platter
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 medium apples, sliced (preferably Fuji or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
For the Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh broccoli florets, apple slices, chopped walnuts, raisins, and shredded carrots.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Drizzle the dressing over the broccoli and apple mixture, toss gently to combine, and serve immediately on a platter.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the platter with your favorite nuts, seeds, or even add some cheese for extra flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 2g