Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a fresh, crunchy, and slightly sweet dish that perfectly balances crisp apples, tender broccoli, and a creamy dressing. Packed with texture and flavor, this salad is a delicious side dish for any occasion, from potlucks to family dinners. The combination of sweet Honeycrisp apples, crunchy nuts, and a tangy dressing makes this salad irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crisp and Refreshing – The perfect blend of crunchy apples and broccoli.
• Sweet and Savory Balance – The Honeycrisp apples add natural sweetness to complement the tangy dressing.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh and crisp even after a day in the fridge.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

• Fresh broccoli florets (chopped)
• Honeycrisp apple (diced)
• Red onion (thinly sliced)
• Dried cranberries
• Sunflower seeds or chopped pecans
• Cooked bacon (crumbled, optional)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)

For the Dressing:

• Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for a lighter option)
• Apple cider vinegar
• Honey or maple syrup
• Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients – Chop broccoli, dice apples, and slice the onion.
2. Mix the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Assemble the Salad – In a large bowl, combine broccoli, apples, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon (if using).
4. Toss with Dressing – Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
5. Chill and Serve – Let sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option – Skip the nuts and add extra seeds or crunchy chickpeas.
• Extra Crunch – Add chopped celery or toasted almonds.
• Vegan Version – Use dairy-free yogurt and omit bacon and cheese.
• Tangy Twist – Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness.
• Sweeter Flavor – Toss in extra dried cranberries or chopped grapes.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture will change.
• Serving Tip: Stir well before serving to redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

Can I use a different apple variety?

Yes! Try Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples for a similar sweetness.

How do I keep the apples from browning?

Toss diced apples in a little lemon juice before adding to the salad.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.

What pairs well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or a fresh sandwich are great options.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh is best, but you can blanch frozen broccoli for a similar result.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes! It holds up well and stays crunchy for up to 3 days.

How can I make the dressing lighter?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier option.

What if I don’t like cranberries?

Substitute with raisins, chopped dates, or pomegranate seeds.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Add an extra tablespoon of mayo or yogurt for a richer dressing.

Conclusion

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a vibrant, crunchy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any season. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this salad brings together fresh ingredients with a creamy, tangy dressing that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy a refreshing, wholesome salad packed with flavor!

Print