This Honeycrisp Apple Salad is a refreshing mix of crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted pecans, all tossed in a light yogurt and honey dressing. With the added sweetness of dried cranberries, it’s the perfect salad for fall or anytime you want a taste of seasonal flavors in a light, healthy dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Balanced and Nutritious: Packed with fruit, nuts, and Greek yogurt for a balance of fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
- Quick and Simple: Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal prep.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Works as a side dish, light lunch, or potluck addition.
- Delicious Texture and Flavor: A mix of crunchy, sweet, and tart ingredients makes each bite exciting.
Ingredients
- 2 large Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
- 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- 1 cup red or green grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or substitute with mayonnaise for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Salad Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, sliced celery, halved grapes, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries.
- Add the Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Small bowl for dressing
- Large mixing bowl for salad
- Whisk for dressing
- Knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish for lunch, dinner, or at a holiday gathering.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Make Ahead: If making in advance, add the toasted pecans just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Recipe Variations
- Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese brings a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the fruit.
- Switch the Nuts: Try using walnuts or almonds in place of pecans for a different flavor.
- Extra Greens: Add a handful of mixed greens or spinach for an extra layer of texture and nutrition.
Helpful Notes
- Preventing Apple Browning: The lemon juice in the dressing helps prevent the apples from browning.
- Toasting the Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
Tips from Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten: “For even more flavor, drizzle a little apple cider vinegar into the dressing.”
- Chef Alice Waters: “Using fresh, seasonal fruit adds natural sweetness without extra sugar.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, substitute the Greek yogurt with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt, and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Q2: What other apples work well in this salad?
Gala, Fuji, or Pink Lady apples are all great alternatives to Honeycrisp.
Q3: Can I add a bit of spice to the dressing?
Yes, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dressing for a warm fall twist.
Q4: How can I make this salad heartier?
Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas for additional protein and fiber.
Q5: Can I substitute dried cranberries with fresh ones?
Fresh cranberries will add more tartness; consider slicing them thinly or using fewer if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
Enjoy Every Bite of This Fresh, Crunchy Honeycrisp Apple Salad!
With its light yogurt dressing, sweet and tart flavors, and crunchy texture, this Honeycrisp Apple Salad is a delicious celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Perfect for fall or any time of the year, it’s a versatile salad that’s easy to make, nutritious, and sure to please!
Print
Crunchy Honeycrisp Apple Salad with Toasted Pecans and Cranberries
- Total Time: 15 Minutes
- Yield: 4 – 6 1x
Description
This Apple Salad with Honeycrisp apples, crisp celery, juicy grapes, and toasted pecans is a refreshing and flavorful addition to any meal. The vibrant colors of the fresh fruit and vegetables are complemented by a creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt, honey, and a hint of lemon. The crunchy texture of the pecans and the sweet chew of the dried cranberries make each bite a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 2 large Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
- 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- 1 cup red or green grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine diced apples, sliced celery, halved grapes, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries.
- Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Preventing Apple Browning: The lemon juice in the dressing helps prevent the apples from browning.
- Toasting the Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
