A Crisp, Fresh Delight: Dive into this Refreshing Apple Salad Recipe!

Photo byAngie Bright

A Fresh Take on Apple Salad

There's something undeniably refreshing about a crisp, sweet apple salad, and this version brings together all the flavors of fall with a mix of crunchy apples, sweet grapes, and tangy cranberries. Whether you're looking for a dish that’s perfect for a light lunch, a holiday side, or a potluck contribution, this apple salad will impress with its simple yet satisfying flavors.

The sweetness of the Honeycrisp apples pairs perfectly with the crunch of celery, the juiciness of red grapes, and the nutty flavor of pecans. To tie it all together, a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise and brown sugar adds a sweet, slightly tangy richness. And let's not forget the burst of dried cranberries that gives this dish that final touch of tartness!

Apple salad is more than just a fruit-based dish—it's a delightful combination of textures and flavors that makes for a well-rounded, balanced side. It’s versatile enough to be served at a casual gathering or even as a refreshing side for a holiday feast. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation steps, you can make this salad in no time!

Recipe: Apple Salad

Ingredients:

• 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

Directions:

1. Prepare the apples: Start by cubing the Honeycrisp apples. Toss them with freshly squeezed lemon juice to prevent the apples from browning. This step not only keeps the salad looking fresh but also adds a subtle hint of citrus to balance the sweetness of the fruit.
2. Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and brown sugar until smooth. The brown sugar adds a caramel-like sweetness to the dressing, while the mayonnaise brings a creamy texture.
3. Combine ingredients: Add the apple cubes, thinly sliced celery, halved grapes, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries to the bowl with the dressing. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
4. Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste of each ingredient.

This salad is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and crunchy. The Honeycrisp apples bring a naturally sweet and juicy element to the dish, complemented by the tartness of dried cranberries and the nutty crunch of pecans. The celery adds a crisp, refreshing bite, while the grapes provide a juicy contrast.

The beauty of this apple salad lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed year-round but feels especially fitting during the cooler months when apples are in season. Whether served as a light snack or an accompaniment to a larger meal, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its vibrant colors and mix of textures make it not only a delight for the palate but also a feast for the eyes.

So, the next time you're looking for a simple yet flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare and sure to impress, turn to this apple salad recipe. It’s guaranteed to bring a bit of freshness and crunch to your table.

Here are some great sources for your apple salad recipe:

1. Small Town Woman offers a variation of apple salad with grapes, celery, and cranberries tossed in a mayonnaise and brown sugar dressing, topped with pecans​Small Town Woman.
2. The Kitchn provides a classic approach to apple salad, recommending the use of Honeycrisp apples, grapes, and walnuts, with a simple honey and lemon juice-enhanced mayo dressing​The Kitchn.
3. Taste of Home gives a twist to the apple salad by incorporating marshmallows along with the standard apples, celery, and toasted pecans​Taste of Home.
4. Six Clever Sisters highlights a version using Honeycrisp apples with Greek yogurt as a substitute for mayonnaise, giving a lighter and tangier flavor to the dish​Six Clever Sisters.

You can explore these variations to find the perfect balance of ingredients for your apple salad!