Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a refreshing, crunchy, and colorful side dish that balances sweet and savory flavors beautifully. With crisp apples, fresh broccoli, creamy dressing, and a mix of crunchy nuts and chewy cranberries, this salad is the perfect addition to any meal or holiday spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is all about texture and flavor harmony. The juicy, sweet Honeycrisp apples contrast wonderfully with the earthy crunch of fresh broccoli. The creamy dressing brings everything together while tangy cranberries and crunchy nuts add an exciting twist. It’s quick to make, healthy, and can easily be customized to suit your preferences. Great for meal prep, potlucks, or just a satisfying side dish during the week.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

• Honeycrisp apples
• Fresh broccoli florets
• Red onion
• Dried cranberries
• Sunflower seeds or chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans)
• Mayonnaise
• Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Apple cider vinegar
• Honey
• Salt and pepper

directions

1. Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets.
2. Dice the Honeycrisp apples into bite-sized pieces.
3. Finely slice the red onion.
4. In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, apples, red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds or nuts.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything until well coated.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Give it a quick stir before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people and takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes of chilling time. It’s a quick and easy dish that doesn’t require any cooking.

Variations

• Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor boost.
• Use a mix of apples (like Fuji or Gala) for variety.
• Swap sunflower seeds with pumpkin seeds or chopped walnuts.
• Add shredded carrots for extra color and crunch.
• Use a vegan mayo and non-dairy yogurt for a plant-based version.

storage/reheating

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh but still tastes great the next day. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the apples and broccoli may become mushy. No reheating is needed—this is a cold salad.

FAQs

How do I keep the apples from browning?

Toss the apple pieces in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad to prevent oxidation and browning.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge and wait to add the dressing until just before serving if you want maximum crunch.

Can I use another type of apple?

Yes, Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples also work well, but Honeycrisp adds a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as all the ingredients used (like mayonnaise and vinegar) are certified gluten-free.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh broccoli is best for this salad. Frozen broccoli tends to be too soft once thawed and won’t provide the desired crunch.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, just substitute the Greek yogurt or sour cream with a dairy-free alternative.

Is there a way to reduce the fat in this salad?

Use low-fat mayo and yogurt or substitute part of the mayo with more Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

What kind of nuts go best with this salad?

Pecans, almonds, or walnuts add great flavor and texture. Sunflower seeds are a good nut-free option.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, crumbled feta or shredded cheddar can be a delicious addition.

Conclusion

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a flavorful, satisfying, and easy-to-make dish that brings together fresh produce with a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for any occasion—from a simple lunch to a holiday gathering—it’s a versatile recipe that you’ll find yourself making again and again. Enjoy the crunch, the sweetness, and the freshness all in one bowl.

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