This Apple Salad is a celebration of textures and flavors—crunchy, juicy, nutty, and sweet all in one bite. Honeycrisp apples bring their signature snap and sweetness, while celery adds a refreshing crunch. Juicy grapes balance the tartness of dried cranberries, and toasted pecans lend a warm, buttery richness. Tossed in a light, creamy dressing with a hint of tang, this salad is perfect as a side dish for holiday feasts, a light lunch, or a refreshing snack. It’s a dish that feels both nostalgic and gourmet—right up your alley!
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 4 large Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced (leave the skin on for color and crunch)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- 2 ribs celery, thinly sliced
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped and lightly toasted
For the Dressing:
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prep the Apples
Dice the Honeycrisp apples into bite-sized cubes and toss them immediately with lemon juice in a large mixing bowl. This keeps them from browning and adds a subtle brightness. - Add the Crunch & Color
To the apples, add the sliced celery, halved grapes, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans. Give everything a gentle toss to distribute the ingredients evenly. - Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey (or maple syrup), and apple cider vinegar. Season with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper. The dressing should be creamy with a touch of sweetness and tang. - Combine & Chill
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently fold everything together until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the salad chill. - Serve & Garnish
Just before serving, give the salad a final toss. For a festive touch, garnish with a few extra cranberries and pecans on top. Serve chilled.
🌟 Tips & Variations:
- Add cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a savory contrast.
- Make it heartier: Add shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked quinoa for a more filling meal.
- Swap the nuts: Walnuts or almonds work beautifully if you’re out of pecans.
- Dressing twist: Try a poppy seed dressing or a citrus vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
This salad is a beautiful blend of rustic charm and modern flair—just like your Mango Carlota or Fruity Tapioca Jelly Drink. Want to pair it with a main dish or turn it into a layered jar salad for a picnic? I’ve got ideas for that too!