This Apple Salad is a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and crunchy flavors. Combining crisp Honeycrisp apples with juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and rich pecans, this salad is tossed in a creamy, sweet dressing that makes it an irresistible side dish or light dessert.
Ingredients for Apple Salad
- 4 large Honeycrisp apples, cubed: Crisp and sweet, these apples are the base of the salad.
- 1 lemon, juiced: Keeps the apples from browning and adds a fresh, tangy flavor.
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, rich dressing for the salad.
- 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar: Adds sweetness to the dressing and complements the tartness of the apples and lemon.
- 2 thinly sliced celery ribs: Adds a refreshing crunch and slight bitterness.
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved: Adds sweetness and a juicy texture to the salad.
- ½ cup chopped pecans: Provides a rich, nutty crunch.
- ½ cup dried cranberries: Adds a chewy texture and a burst of sweet-tart flavor.
Instructions: How to Make Apple Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
- Cube the Apples:
- Wash, core, and cut the Honeycrisp apples into bite-sized cubes.
- Toss with Lemon Juice:
- Place the apple cubes in a large mixing bowl and toss them with the lemon juice to prevent browning and to add a tangy flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and brown sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing is smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Add the Ingredients:
- To the bowl with the apples, add the sliced celery, halved red grapes, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries.
- Toss with Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Serve
- Chill and Serve:
- For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish (Optional):
- If desired, garnish with a few extra pecans or cranberries on top before serving.
Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Apple Varieties: If Honeycrisp apples are unavailable, you can substitute them with other crisp, sweet-tart apples like Fuji or Gala.
- Dressing Adjustments: For a lighter dressing, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Nuts: For a different flavor, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds.
Variations of Apple Salad
Here are some ways to customize your Apple Salad:
- Cheddar Apple Salad: Add 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for a savory twist.
- Apple and Blue Cheese Salad: Add 1/4 cup of crumbled blue cheese for a bold flavor contrast.
- Cranberry Apple Salad with Chicken: Add cooked, diced chicken breast to make this salad a more substantial meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated and give it a quick toss before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the apples may become slightly softer over time.
3. Can I add other fruits to this salad?
Absolutely! Fresh fruits like pears, pomegranate seeds, or mandarin oranges would make great additions.
4. Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use Miracle Whip, but it will result in a slightly sweeter and tangier dressing.
5. What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or can be served as a light stand-alone dish.
A Fresh and Flavorful Salad
This Apple Salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that balances sweet, tart, and savory flavors perfectly. Whether you serve it as a side dish, a light lunch, or a festive addition to a holiday table, it’s sure to be a hit. With its crisp apples, crunchy celery, and rich pecans, all tied together by a creamy, sweet dressing, this salad is as delicious as it is easy to make.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy this delightful and healthy salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
