Apple Salad

Apple Salad is a simple and flavorful side dish made with just eight ingredients. Crisp apples, sweet grapes, crunchy pecans, and tangy dried cranberries are tossed in a creamy, lightly sweetened dressing. This salad can be made in under ten minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays, potlucks, or holiday meals. It’s refreshing, easy to prepare, and loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients

• 4 large Honeycrisp apples, cubed (see notes)
• 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

Instructions

1. Toss the cubed apples with the lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the apples, celery, grapes, pecans, and dried cranberries to the bowl.
4. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
5. Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

• Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
• Pair with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a holiday meal spread.
• Great for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings as a refreshing side dish.
• Garnish with extra pecans or a few fresh grapes for a visually appealing presentation.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Avoid freezing, as apples and dressing can become watery and lose texture.
• If the salad sits for a while, stir gently before serving to redistribute the dressing.
• Keep chilled until serving to maintain crispness and freshness.

Variations

1. Lighter Version
   • Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-calorie option.
   • Adds a creamy texture while reducing fat content.
2. Nut Swap
   • Use walnuts, almonds, or cashews instead of pecans.
   • Offers a different crunch and slightly unique flavor profile.
3. Extra Sweetness
   • Drizzle honey or maple syrup into the dressing.
   • Enhances the natural sweetness of the apples and grapes.
4. Fruity Twist
   • Add shredded carrots, chopped pineapple, or sliced strawberries.
   • Introduces new textures, colors, and flavors for a more vibrant salad.
5. Savory Kick
   • Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dressing.
   • Adds a warm, subtle spice that complements the sweetness of the fruit.
6. Tropical Apple Salad
   • Mix in diced mango or kiwi along with the grapes.
   • Brings a tropical flavor twist perfect for summer gatherings.
7. Cranberry Orange Version
   • Replace lemon juice with orange juice and add extra dried cranberries.
   • Offers a citrusy flavor that brightens the salad.
8. Protein Boost
   • Add cooked chicken breast or turkey chunks for a hearty salad.
   • Makes it a complete meal suitable for lunch or dinner.
9. Crunchy Granola Addition
   • Sprinkle granola on top before serving.
   • Adds extra crunch and a slight nutty-sweet taste.
10. Spiced Nut Mix

Elevates flavor with a sweet and aromatic crunch

Toast pecans with a dash of cinnamon and brown sugar before adding.

FAQs

1. How do I prevent the apples from browning?
   Toss the cubed apples with lemon juice immediately after cutting to maintain their color and freshness.
2. Can I use other apple varieties?
   Yes, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala apples work well, depending on your preferred sweetness and texture.
3. Can this salad be made ahead of time?
   Yes, but it’s best to chill for no more than 2 hours before serving to keep the apples crisp.
4. Can I make this salad vegan?
   Yes, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise or plant-based yogurt.
5. How many servings does this recipe make?
   This recipe serves 6.
6. Can I add more fruits?
   Yes, additional fruits like pineapple, strawberries, or blueberries can be added for variety and color.
7. Can I omit the nuts?
   Yes, but the salad will lose some of its crunchy texture. You can substitute seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds if desired.
8. How should leftovers be stored?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving.
9. Can I double this recipe?
   Yes, simply double all ingredients while keeping proportions the same.
10. Is this salad suitable for holiday meals or parties?
    Absolutely. It’s a refreshing and visually appealing side dish that works well for Thanksgiving, Christmas, potlucks, or casual gatherings.

This Apple Salad is a refreshing and easy-to-make dish that combines crisp textures and sweet, creamy flavors. It’s perfect as a side for any meal or as a dish to bring to parties and gatherings. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing salad.

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