Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy elements that make every bite exciting. The crispness of the broccoli and Honeycrisp apples contrasts beautifully with the chewy dried cranberries and crunchy nuts. The creamy dressing ties it all together, making it an ideal dish for potlucks, family meals, or as a healthy snack option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salad:

• 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 large Honeycrisp apple, diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Note: The dressing ingredients were not provided. Typically, a creamy dressing for this salad includes mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. If you’d like, I can include a suggested dressing recipe.

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced Honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Prepare the dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, and a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice until smooth (if you want me to provide exact quantities, I can do that).
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold as a side dish or a light lunch.

Servings and timing

Makes about 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute pecans or walnuts with almonds or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
• Use Greek yogurt in the dressing to lighten it up.
• Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
• Swap cheddar cheese for feta or goat cheese for a tangier twist.
• Mix in sliced grapes or orange segments for extra sweetness.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best served cold and should not be reheated.

FAQs

Can I use other apple varieties besides Honeycrisp?

Yes, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala apples work well too, depending on your preferred sweetness and tartness.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, but add the dressing just before serving to prevent the broccoli and apples from becoming soggy.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make the salad vegan?

Replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives and omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?

Toss the diced apples with a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of fresh broccoli and apples will degrade.

What can I substitute for dried cranberries?

Raisins, dried cherries, or chopped dried apricots work well as alternatives.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu can be added to make it more filling.

How do I make the dressing?

A simple dressing is made by mixing mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, and apple cider vinegar.

Can I omit the cheese?

Yes, the salad will still be delicious without cheese or you can substitute with a dairy-free option.

Conclusion

The Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together sweet, crunchy, and creamy elements in every bite. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it an excellent choice for a nutritious side or light meal any time of year. Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this salad is sure to impress.

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