Elevate your side dish game with this refreshing and flavorful Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring crisp apples, crunchy broccoli, tangy cranberries, and a creamy dressing that brings it all together. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or looking for a wholesome lunch option, this salad is a must-try.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
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4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
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1 large Honeycrisp apple, diced
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½ cup dried cranberries
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½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
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¼ cup red onion, finely diced
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½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
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½ cup mayonnaise (or substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon honey
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½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by washing and chopping the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Dice the Honeycrisp apple into small cubes and finely dice the red onion. If you’re using cheese, shred it now.
2. Mix the Salad:
In a large bowl, toss together the broccoli, diced apple, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and stir well until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and gives the salad a perfect refreshing chill.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or holiday spreads. It’s equally delicious on its own for a quick lunch or as a side for potlucks and gatherings.
Tips and Variations
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Swap the cranberries for dried cherries or raisins for a different twist.
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Toast the nuts for added flavor and crunch.
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Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky touch.
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Use Greek yogurt to cut down on calories while keeping the creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 0 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
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Calories: ~220 per serving
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Servings: 4
Final Thought
With a satisfying crunch, a pop of sweetness, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together, this Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a flavor-packed experience. Perfect for any season, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Made with love, served with joy! ❤️