Why You’ll Love Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe

This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad offers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The natural sweetness of Honeycrisp apples pairs beautifully with the earthy, crunchy texture of broccoli. Add in a creamy dressing, and you’ve got a salad that’s refreshing yet satisfying. It’s easy to make, and you can even prepare it ahead of time for convenience. Packed with nutrients, it’s not only delicious but also a healthy option for any meal.

Ingredients

Fresh broccoli (florets)
Honeycrisp apples (sliced)
Red onion (finely chopped)
Dried cranberries
Sunflower seeds
Bacon (optional, cooked and crumbled)
Greek yogurt
Mayonnaise
Apple cider vinegar
Honey
Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, sliced Honeycrisp apples, red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. If you’re using bacon, add the crumbled bacon to the mixture.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine, making sure everything is coated with the dressing.
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, give the salad one last toss and adjust the seasoning, if needed.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Refrigeration time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add more fruits: If you like more fruit in your salad, feel free to add other options like grapes, pears, or even orange segments for extra flavor and color.
Use different nuts: Swap sunflower seeds for chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a different crunch.
Make it dairy-free: Substitute Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with dairy-free versions, such as coconut yogurt and vegan mayo.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The dressing may soften the broccoli, but it will still taste great.
Reheating: This salad is best served chilled and doesn’t require reheating. Simply toss it again before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time or even the night before. Just keep it in the fridge and toss again before serving.

Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Absolutely! You can leave out the bacon for a vegetarian version or use a plant-based bacon alternative.

Can I use other types of apples for this salad?

While Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their sweetness and crunch, you can use other crisp apples like Gala or Fuji as well.

Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?

If you want a low-carb version, skip the dried cranberries and honey in the dressing, and reduce the amount of mayonnaise to make it more keto-friendly.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream?

Yes, sour cream can be used in place of Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries would work, but you may want to sweeten them slightly or chop them up to avoid overwhelming the salad with their tartness.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo and the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, such as almond or coconut yogurt.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, adding crumbled feta or shredded cheddar can add a delicious savory component to the salad.

How long will the salad stay fresh in the fridge?

This salad is best eaten within 2-3 days. The broccoli may start to soften, but it will still be flavorful.

Can I make this salad without sunflower seeds?

You can leave out the sunflower seeds or substitute them with another crunchy topping like pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts.

Conclusion

The Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a delightful, crunchy, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a side dish, bring it to a picnic, or enjoy it as a light lunch, its fresh and vibrant flavors are sure to please everyone. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this salad is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy the mix of textures and flavors, from the crisp apples to the creamy dressing, and savor every bite!

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

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This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a fresh and crunchy salad that combines the sweetness of Honeycrisp apples with the hearty texture of broccoli. Tossed in a light, creamy dressing, this salad is perfect for a nutritious side dish or a refreshing lunch. Full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, it’s a healthy, delicious option.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the vegetables and fruit: Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Core and dice the Honeycrisp apples into small pieces, leaving the skin on for added crunch.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Adjust the sweetness and seasoning to your preference.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, diced apples, red onion, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries (if using).
Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
Serve: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors marinate.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a bit of sharp cheddar cheese or crumbled bacon.
If you prefer a vegan version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt or avocado.
You can prep the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad crisp.