Say hello to your new favorite Apple Salad! This dish is a harmonious blend of crisp, sweet apples, juicy grapes, crunchy pecans, and tangy dried cranberries, all tied together with a creamy, slightly sweet dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for everything from a quick snack to a festive holiday side dish.
Best of all, it comes together in just 10 minutes—no stress, just pure deliciousness. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Salad
1. Bursting with Flavor:
The combination of sweet apples, tangy cranberries, and nutty pecans hits all the right notes.
2. Quick and Easy:
With minimal prep and no cooking required, it’s a go-to for busy days.
3. Crowd-Pleaser:
Great for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday gatherings—everyone loves this salad!
4. Customizable:
You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences.
What Does Apple Salad Taste Like?
This salad is a mix of textures and flavors. The crisp apples and celery provide crunch, while the grapes and cranberries bring a juicy, sweet-tart element. The creamy mayo-based dressing, with a hint of brown sugar, ties it all together for a perfectly balanced bite.
Ingredients for Apple Salad
- 4 large Honeycrisp apples, cubed
- 1 lemon, juiced
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 ribs celery, thinly sliced
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup dried cranberries
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Sharp knife for chopping apples, celery, and grapes
- Cutting board
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
- Yogurt Substitute: Replace mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Swap the Pecans: Use walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds instead of pecans.
- Add Protein: Mix in shredded chicken or turkey for a heartier salad.
- Change Up the Fruit: Try using green apples, pears, or even fresh berries.
How to Make Apple Salad
1. Prep the Apples
Cube the apples and toss them with the lemon juice in a large bowl. This prevents browning and adds a tangy kick.
2. Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine the Ingredients
Add the apples, celery, grapes, pecans, and cranberries to the bowl with the dressing. Stir everything gently until well coated.
4. Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
Tips for the Best Apple Salad
- Choose Crisp Apples: Honeycrisp is ideal, but Gala or Fuji also work well for their sweetness and crunch.
- Toast the Pecans: Lightly toast the pecans for extra flavor and crunch.
- Serve Fresh: While this salad can be stored, it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch and flavor.
What to Serve with Apple Salad
- Holiday Meals: Pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or roast chicken.
- Light Lunch: Enjoy it as a main dish with a slice of crusty bread.
- Picnic or Potluck: A great addition to any outdoor gathering or buffet spread.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Do Not Freeze: The fresh produce won’t retain its texture after freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep it a few hours in advance, but it’s best served on the same day for peak freshness.
Q: Can I use a different type of dressing?
A: Sure! A tangy vinaigrette or a honey-mustard dressing would work well as a substitute.
Q: How do I prevent the apples from browning?
A: Tossing them with lemon juice is the easiest way to keep them fresh and bright.
Conclusion
This Apple Salad is as simple as it is delicious—a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and crunchy. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, a casual dinner, or just because, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Ready to give it a try? Share your creations on Pinterest or Instagram, and let me know how you make it your own! For more fruity salads, check out my Strawberry Spinach Salad or Waldorf Salad recipes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 26g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 21g
Enjoy every crunchy, fruity bite! 🍎🍇🥗
