Looking for a healthy, flavorful, and vibrant salad that’s perfect for any occasion? This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch. Whether you need a quick side dish for a family dinner, a refreshing option for meal prep, or a nutritious salad for holiday gatherings, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet & Savory Balance – The natural sweetness of Honeycrisp apples pairs beautifully with the crispness of broccoli and the tangy dressing.
- Loaded with Nutrients – Broccoli is packed with fiber and vitamins, while apples provide antioxidants and a natural sweetness.
- Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this salad is ready in under 15 minutes.
- Great for Meal Prep – The flavors blend even better after chilling, making it a perfect make-ahead salad for busy days.
Ingredients for Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad
For this simple yet delicious salad, you’ll need fresh and wholesome ingredients:
Salad Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 large Honeycrisp apple, diced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional but adds a rich flavor)
Dressing Ingredients:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Salad Ingredients
- Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets.
- Dice the Honeycrisp apple into bite-sized pieces. To prevent browning, toss the apple pieces in a little lemon juice.
- Finely dice the red onion and roughly chop the pecans or walnuts.
2️⃣ Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- The dressing should be smooth and slightly tangy with a hint of sweetness.
3️⃣ Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, apples, cranberries, nuts, red onion, and cheddar cheese (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss until everything is well coated.
4️⃣ Chill & Serve
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and enhances the taste.
- Serve cold and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions & Variations
- Protein Boost – Add grilled chicken or turkey for a more filling meal.
- Dairy-Free Option – Skip the cheddar cheese and use a vegan mayo alternative.
- Extra Crunch – Swap nuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- Creamier Dressing – Mix in a little Greek yogurt with the mayo for a lighter option.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze, as fresh ingredients like apples and broccoli will become soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it a perfect meal-prep dish.
What other apples work well in this salad?
Besides Honeycrisp, you can use Fuji, Pink Lady, or Gala apples for a similar sweet-crisp texture.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best crunch. If using frozen broccoli, blanch it quickly and let it cool completely before adding it to the salad.
Final Thoughts
This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, wholesome ingredients in a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish. Whether served as a side or a light meal, it’s guaranteed to impress your taste buds.
💡 Ready to try it? Let us know in the comments how it turned out!
📌 Don’t forget to save this recipe for later and share it with friends!
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