Rainbow Broccoli Apple Kabobs

Name: Rainbow Broccoli Apple Kabobs
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 apples, cut into chunks (preferably crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 1/4 cup peanut butter (or almond butter); 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Wooden skewers

Highlighted under: Effortless Cooking Creations

I absolutely love making Rainbow Broccoli Apple Kabobs whenever I'm looking for a fun and vibrant snack. Combining crisp broccoli florets, sweet apple chunks, and creamy peanut butter gives a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. This recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a refreshing and healthier alternative to traditional kabobs. It’s a perfect way to get kids excited about vegetables, and each kabob is quick to assemble for a light party appetizer or a healthy treat!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:14:28.771Z

When I first came up with the idea for these Rainbow Broccoli Apple Kabobs, I was inspired by the colorful produce available at the farmers' market. I thought, why not combine the best of both worlds—vegetables and fruit—into a single, easy-to-eat treat? The sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the slight bitterness of broccoli, creating an unexpected yet harmonious flavor profile.

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to blanch the broccoli briefly in salted water before cooling it in ice water. This technique not only helps retain the broccoli's bright green color and crunch but also makes it more appealing to kids. The end result is a vibrant, nutrient-packed kabob that everyone enjoys!

Why You'll Love These Kabobs
A colorful, vibrant presentation that makes healthy eating fun
Sweet and crunchy contrast between juicy apples and broccoli
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days or gatherings

The Perfect Crunch

Achieving the right crunch in your Rainbow Broccoli Apple Kabobs starts with properly blanching the broccoli. Aim for just 1-2 minutes in boiling salted water. You want to see a vibrant green color while maintaining some firmness. If the broccoli gets overcooked, it'll lose its satisfying bite and become mushy. The immediate transfer to ice water is crucial; not only does it stop the cooking process, but it also helps retain that vivid color. You can even prepare the broccoli a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble.

The apples you choose will greatly influence the overall flavor and texture of the kabobs. Crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp not only add sweetness but also a wonderful crunch that complements the tender broccoli. If you prefer a less tart apple, go for Fuji or Gala. Just ensure that you cut the apple chunks large enough to stay secure on the skewer but small enough for easy consumption.

Customizing Your Dipping Sauce

While the peanut butter and honey mixture is a classic choice, you can customize it to your taste. For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of Sriracha to the peanut butter. If you or your guests are sensitive to nuts, tahini or sunflower seed butter can work well as substitutes while still providing creaminess. Remember that you can adjust the honey for sweetness; if you add more, just mix thoroughly until the sauce reaches a glossy consistency.

If you want to add a fruity twist to the dipping sauce, consider incorporating mashed banana or a splash of apple juice. This additional flavor can enhance the overall experience of the kabobs, making them even more delightful. Serve the kabobs with assorted dipping sauces to cater to different taste preferences, and you’ll create a fun and interactive snack experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Rainbow Broccoli Apple Kabobs:

Ingredients

1 cup broccoli florets
2 apples, cut into chunks (preferably crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1/4 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Wooden skewers

Once you have these ingredients, you’re ready to get started!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to build your kabobs:

Prepare the Broccoli

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli florets for 1-2 minutes until bright green, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking.

Build the Kabobs

On each skewer, alternate adding pieces of broccoli and apple chunks. Leave some space between each piece for easier eating.

Make the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth. Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey if desired.

Serve the kabobs with the peanut butter dipping sauce for a deliciously fun snack!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with other fruits like grapes or strawberries, depending on your taste preferences. You can also substitute the peanut butter with a nut-free alternative if needed.

Serving Suggestions

These kabobs are ideal for parties as a light appetizer or for packing in lunchboxes as a nutritious snack. To elevate your presentation, lay the kabobs across a colorful platter sprinkled with edible flowers or serve them standing upright in a tall glass for a dramatic look. For a party, consider pairing these kabobs with other colorful dishes, like a vibrant fruit salad or a veggie platter for a balanced spread.

If you're looking for ideas to turn these kabobs into a complete meal, try serving them alongside a grain-based salad, such as quinoa or bulgur with herbs. The contrasting flavors and textures will provide a satisfying meal that still feels light. Drizzle some extra peanut butter or yogurt-based sauce over the salad for an enticing finish.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover kabobs, storing them is simple. To maintain the freshness and crunch, it's best to keep the broccoli and apple pieces in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the dipping sauce stored in a container of its own. They can generally last for 1-2 days when stored separately, but it's best to consume them fresh for optimal taste and texture.

For meal prep enthusiasts, consider assembling the kabobs ahead of time but wait until just before serving to add the dipping sauce to avoid sogginess. You can prepare the broccoli and apples a day before, then skewer them just before serving. This way, you can keep everything fresh and exciting for your guests!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these kabobs in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the broccoli and apple chunks a few hours in advance and assemble the kabobs shortly before serving.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for the sauce?

Absolutely! You can substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and omit the honey for a vegan option.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Carrots, bell peppers, or even cucumber would make great additions to your kabobs.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. You can enjoy them cold or at room temperature.