Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Apple Broccoli Salad is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that combines the crispness of fresh broccoli and sweet Honeycrisp apples with a tangy, creamy dressing. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a healthy snack any time of year.

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

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, diced Honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese if using.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Step 4: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• Add some cooked bacon bits for a smoky crunch.
• Try swapping the pecans or walnuts for almonds or sunflower seeds for a different texture.
• Use red or green apples if Honeycrisp is not available, adjusting sweetness to taste.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toss gently before serving to redistribute the dressing. Leftovers are best enjoyed cold and should be consumed within 48 hours for freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead. Just keep it refrigerated and toss it well before serving to freshen up the flavors.

Can I use a different dressing?

Absolutely. This salad works well with a honey mustard or a light vinaigrette if you prefer a less creamy option.

Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe

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4.5 from 102 reviews

A crisp and refreshing Apple Broccoli Salad combining crunchy broccoli florets, sweet Honeycrisp apples, dried cranberries, and crunchy nuts, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Perfect as a side dish for any meal or a light, healthy snack.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad 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)

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine the salad ingredients. In a large bowl, mix together the chopped broccoli florets, diced Honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, chopped pecans or walnuts, finely diced red onion, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese if using. This combines all the fresh and crunchy components of the salad.
2. Prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well emulsified. This dressing adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the salad.
3. Toss the salad with dressing. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are thoroughly coated with the dressing for even flavor distribution.
4. Chill before serving. Place the salad in the refrigerator and chill it for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste and texture of the salad before serving.

Notes

• To keep the salad fresh and crunchy, add the dressing just before serving if preparing far in advance.
• You can substitute the pecans or walnuts with your preferred nuts like almonds or cashews.
• For a dairy-free version, omit the cheddar cheese or replace with a vegan cheese alternative.
• Adjust honey and vinegar quantities to balance sweetness and tanginess according to your taste.
• This salad can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Keywords: apple broccoli salad, broccoli salad with apples, crunchy broccoli salad, healthy salad recipe, no-cook salad, Thanksgiving salad, side dish salad