Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and delicious salad, this Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries is just what you need! It’s the perfect combination of crisp apples, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and nutty pecans, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a holiday meal or enjoying it as a quick weekday lunch, this salad is packed with flavor and texture that will leave you coming back for more.
This dish is a fresh take on the classic Waldorf salad, but with a twist that makes it even more irresistible. The balance of sweet and tart flavors, combined with a creamy honey-mayo dressing, makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make—just a few minutes of chopping and mixing, and you’re ready to enjoy a healthy, flavorful dish!
If you love fresh, fruit-filled salads, you might also enjoy our Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Dressing. Like this apple salad, it’s vibrant, easy to make, and full of delicious flavors. Get ready to fall in love with this delightful apple salad recipe!
What is Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries?
You might be wondering—what makes this apple salad so special? Well, imagine biting into a forkful of crunchy, juicy apples, crisp celery, and sweet grapes, all tossed together with a creamy honey-lemon dressing. Sounds amazing, right?
The name may be a mouthful, but this dish is all about simplicity. Honeycrisp apples bring their signature crisp texture and natural sweetness, while celery adds a refreshing crunch. Pecans and dried cranberries add a nutty, chewy contrast that makes every bite exciting.
They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this salad is no exception! Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or a gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Salad
- It’s fresh and flavorful – This salad bursts with a mix of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors, making it a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
- It’s budget-friendly – Instead of buying expensive pre-made salads, you can make this at home with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- It’s versatile – Serve it as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as a topping for grilled chicken or turkey. The options are endless!
If you love Waldorf salad, you’ll adore this variation. It’s just as creamy and delicious but with an extra punch of flavor from the honey and lemon dressing. Try it today and see why it’s a family favorite!
How to Make Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries
Quick Overview
This salad is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a refreshing and healthy dish ready in minutes. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
Key Ingredients
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients – Chop the apples, celery, and grapes, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the crunch – Toss in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
- Make the dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine and mix – Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Serve and enjoy – Serve immediately, or refrigerate for later to let the flavors meld together even more!
What to Serve Apple Salad With
This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled Chicken – A light, juicy chicken breast complements the sweet and tangy flavors of this salad.
- Turkey Sandwich – Serve it as a side with a turkey sandwich for a delicious, balanced lunch.
- Cheese Platter – Enjoy it with a selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar for a fancy appetizer.
- Spinach and Arugula Salad – Add a bed of greens to turn this into a hearty meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting Apple Salad
- Choose the right apples – Honeycrisp apples are perfect for their crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor, but Fuji or Gala apples work too.
- Toast the pecans – Lightly toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds an extra crunch.
- Adjust the sweetness – If you prefer a tangier dressing, add a little more lemon juice; for extra sweetness, drizzle in more honey.
- Make it dairy-free – Swap mayonnaise for dairy-free yogurt or a light vinaigrette for a different twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The apples may brown slightly, but the lemon juice helps keep them fresh.
- Freezing – This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the apples and celery changes.
- Reheating – No need to reheat! If stored in the fridge, simply give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Try This Apple Salad Today!
Now that you know how easy and delicious this Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries is, why not give it a try? It’s fresh, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Let us know in the comments how you liked it, and don’t forget to check out our other delicious salad recipes!
Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries
Ingredients
- 2 Honeycrisp apples cored and chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 1 cup red grapes halved
- 1/2 cup pecans chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients – Chop the apples, celery, and grapes, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the crunch – Toss in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
- Make the dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine and mix – Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Serve and enjoy – Serve immediately, or refrigerate for later to let the flavors meld together even more!
Notes
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans before adding them to the salad.
- Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add chopped chicken or turkey to make it a heartier meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Best served chilled for a refreshing taste.