Description

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a refreshing blend of crisp, juicy apples, crunchy broccoli, and sweet-tart cranberries, all brought together with a creamy, tangy honey dressing. Perfect for any occasion, this salad embodies a harmony of textures and flavors, making it an irresistible side dish or light meal. Whether served at a family barbecue, a holiday gathering, or as a weekday lunch, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. The addition of nuts and optional cheddar cheese adds richness, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing favorite.

Ingredients

• For the Salad:
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
• 2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• For the Dressing:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing the fresh ingredients. Chop the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces and dice the Honeycrisp apples into small cubes. For an extra pop of color, you can leave the apple skins on. Combine the broccoli, apples, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using) in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Adjust the seasoning to taste, balancing the sweetness of the honey with a touch of saltiness.

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Using a large spoon or salad tongs, toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. Be gentle to avoid bruising the apples or crushing the broccoli.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step enhances the taste and gives the salad a refreshing chill.

Serve the salad chilled, either as a side dish or a light main course. Garnish with additional chopped nuts or cranberries for a festive touch if desired.

Tips and Conclusion

To elevate the flavor, toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the salad. For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy note and reduces calories. You can also swap dried cranberries for raisins or chopped dried apricots for a twist on the sweetness. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a burst of freshness to any meal. Its combination of crisp apples, tender broccoli, and sweet cranberries dressed in a luscious honey-infused dressing makes it a standout choice for both casual and elegant occasions. Pair it with roasted chicken or grilled salmon for a complete meal, or serve it alongside other salads for a colorful spread. Explore more creative salad recipes on our site and share this crowd-pleasing favorite with friends and family. Happy cooking!