This Apple Salad is a vibrant, refreshing mix of crisp Honeycrisp apples, crunchy celery, juicy grapes, toasted pecans, and sweet-tart dried cranberries, all tossed in a creamy, lightly sweetened dressing. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors—sweet, savory, tangy, and nutty. Whether served as a side dish for holiday dinners, a light lunch, or a potluck favorite, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and naturally gluten-free.
Ingredients:
- 4 large Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- 2 ribs celery, thinly sliced
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted
- ½ cup dried cranberries
For the Dressing:
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prep the Apples
- Wash, core, and dice the Honeycrisp apples into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss them in a large bowl with the lemon juice to prevent browning and add a bright flavor.
2. Toast the Pecans
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), honey, and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad
- To the bowl with the apples, add the sliced celery, halved grapes, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries.
- Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with extra pecans or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint if desired.
Tips & Variations:
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate and toss before serving for best texture.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for pecans.
- Add Protein: Toss in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked quinoa for a heartier meal.
- Cheese Twist: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy contrast.
- Fruit Swap: Try adding chopped pears, mandarin oranges, or pomegranate seeds for seasonal flair.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken, turkey, or pork.
- Pair with a sandwich or wrap for a light lunch.
- Add to a brunch spread alongside quiche or muffins.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Fresh & Crunchy: Every bite is packed with texture and flavor.
- Naturally Sweet: No refined sugar needed—just fruit and a touch of honey.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with no cooking required.
- Versatile: Great for holidays, picnics, or weekday lunches.
This Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries is a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold textures. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast—so you might want to double the batch! Want a creamy poppy seed dressing or fall-inspired version next? 🍁🥗