Description
Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a vibrant, crunchy salad featuring crisp broccoli florets, juicy Honeycrisp apple pieces, sweet dried cranberries, and toasted pecans or walnuts for extra richness. The salad is tossed in a creamy honey-apple cider vinaigrette and finished with sharp cheddar and red onion, delivering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite. Perfect for gatherings or a refreshing lunch.
Ingredients
- 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 (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, diced Honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, chopped pecans or walnuts, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
To make this salad dairy-free, omit the sharp cheddar or use a vegan substitute. Swap pecans or walnuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing. Prepare up to one day ahead and store covered in the refrigerator; leftovers keep fresh for up to 2 days, though the broccoli and apples may lose some crunch. If the salad seems watery after storing, simply drain excess liquid and gently toss before serving. Apples may brown if pre-chopped, so add just before serving when making ahead.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg