Crunchy Honeycrisp Apple and Broccoli Salad

ByThe Crispy Chef
A large white bowl filled with crunchy broccoli florets, diced red apples, sunflower seeds, and creamy dressing.

There is something magical about the first bite of a crisp apple on a cool fall afternoon.

This Honeycrisp Apple and Broccoli Salad brings that fresh crunch right to your dinner table. It is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that everyone loves. You will find yourself reaching for seconds before the main course even arrives!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a total winner because it is completely no-cook and stays crunchy for hours. It is ideal for busy fall weeknights when you need a healthy side dish fast. The sweet apples and dried cranberries make it a huge hit with the kids, too.

Your friends will definitely ask for the recipe at your next neighborhood potluck or family gathering. It is budget-friendly and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, it is a nutritious way to get more greens onto your plate!

Simple Method

Getting this salad ready is as easy as it gets for any home cook. You simply whisk together a quick dressing and toss everything in a big bowl. There is no fancy equipment or difficult techniques required here. Even beginners can master this refreshing dish in just fifteen minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on fresh seasonal produce and a few basic staples from your kitchen cupboard.

  • 4 cups small broccoli florets
  • 2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Step-by-Step

  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. In a large salad bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced Honeycrisp apples, red onion, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries.
  3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
  4. Toss all ingredients until evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this salad chilled for the most refreshing experience. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or a warm bowl of autumn squash soup. For a relaxed family dinner, set it in the middle of the table and let everyone dig in.

Keep It Fresh

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The broccoli actually holds up quite well to the dressing over time. Give it a quick toss before serving again to redistribute those delicious flavors. This recipe is not suitable for freezing, as the apples and broccoli will lose their crunch.

Tips for Best Results

  • Cut broccoli small so every bite is easy to eat and well-coated.
  • Do not skip the chilling time because it helps the flavors fully develop.
  • Use Honeycrisp apples for the best balance of sweetness and firm texture.
  • Swap sunflower seeds for pumpkin seeds if you want a seasonal twist.
  • For a lighter version, use half Greek yogurt and half mayonnaise.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the apples to keep them bright.
  • Double the batch for a larger holiday crowd or office potluck.

    • Ways to Switch It Up

  • Add crispy bacon bits for a salty and smoky flavor profile.
  • Swap the dried cranberries for golden raisins for a different kind of sweetness.
  • Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper autumnal flavor.
  • Toss in some crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and salty kick.

    • Common Questions

    Can I make this salad ahead of time?

    Yes, you can definitely prepare this a few hours before your event. In fact, letting it sit in the fridge helps the dressing soften the broccoli slightly. It is one of the best make-ahead salads for entertaining guests.

    What if I don’t have Honeycrisp apples?

    Any firm, sweet-tart apple will work well in this recipe. Fuji or Pink Lady apples are excellent substitutes that maintain their shape. Avoid soft apples like McIntosh as they might get mushy when tossed.

    I hope this crunchy salad brings a little bit of fall joy to your kitchen. It is such a simple way to celebrate the season with your family. Happy cooking!

    — Lidia

    A large white bowl filled with crunchy broccoli florets, diced red apples, sunflower seeds, and creamy dressing.

    Honeycrisp Apple and Broccoli Salad

    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 4 servings
    Calories 280 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 4 cups small broccoli florets
    • 2 Honeycrisp apples , cored and diced
    • 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
    • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
    • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
    • 1/2 cup mayonnais e
    • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon hone y
    • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

    Instructions
     

    • In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
    • In a large salad bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced Honeycrisp apples, red onion, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries.
    • Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
    • Toss all ingredients until evenly coated with the dressing.
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

    Similar Posts

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating