Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a refreshing, crunchy, and healthy dish that combines crisp broccoli, sweet Honeycrisp apples, and a tangy dressing. The perfect balance of flavors and textures makes this salad an ideal side dish for any meal, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, potluck, or picnic. With a mix of vibrant vegetables and a touch of sweetness from the apples, it’s a salad that will brighten up your plate and leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Ingredients

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

• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 Honeycrisp apples (cored and chopped)
• 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, chopped Honeycrisp apples, red onion, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, and shredded cheddar cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
4. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled as a side dish and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. Prep time is 10 minutes, chill time is 30 minutes, bringing the total time to approximately 40 minutes.

Variations

• Add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein and flavor.
• Swap the sunflower seeds for chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
• Add a handful of grapes or mandarin oranges for additional sweetness.
• For a vegan version, use a plant-based mayonnaise and substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best served chilled, so avoid reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can substitute Honeycrisp apples with other sweet and crisp apple varieties like Gala or Fuji.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad a few hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How do I keep the apples from browning?

To prevent browning, toss the chopped apples in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with a milder cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Yes, you can add additional vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers for added crunch.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it’s best served fresh to keep the apples crisp.

Can I make this salad spicy?

Yes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Can I use a store-bought dressing?

Yes, you can use a store-bought dressing, but the homemade dressing adds a great touch of tanginess and flavor.

Can I substitute the honey?

Yes, you can substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness.

Can I freeze this salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the apples and broccoli won’t retain their texture after thawing.

Conclusion

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a light and refreshing dish that combines the crunch of fresh broccoli with the sweetness of apples and a creamy dressing. Easy to make and full of vibrant flavors, this salad is the perfect addition to any meal. With endless variations and a delicious balance of textures, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

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