If you’ve ever craved a salad that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color, this Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe will tick every box. Crunchy, sweet, tangy, and packed with nutrients, it’s the kind of dish that gets people asking for seconds (and the recipe, too)! Honeycrisp apples lend their naturally sweet juiciness, broccoli provides a satisfying crunch, and a creamy tangy dressing ties everything together seamlessly. Whether you serve it as a holiday side, pack it for lunch, or bring it to a summer potluck, this salad always shines.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this salad lies in a short and sweet ingredient list. Each element plays a pivotal role in delivering contrasting flavors and textures, so try not to skip anything — every bite brings something delightful!
- Broccoli florets: Crisp and earthy, they’re the sturdy backbone that gives every forkful its snap.
- Honeycrisp apples: Their juicy sweetness and satisfying crunch create the perfect fruit-and-veggie harmony.
- Shredded carrots: A pop of color and mild sweetness — plus a little extra crunch (and nutrition) too.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced or finely chopped, it adds a gentle zing that keeps the salad lively.
- Dried cranberries: Their chewy tartness mingles beautifully with the creamy dressing and crisp ingredients.
- Roasted sunflower seeds: Toasty, nutty flavors add depth and another layer of crunch.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For richness and an earthy undertone, toss some in if you have them.
- Plain Greek yogurt: The healthier base for our dressing, offering creaminess with a tangy edge.
- Mayonnaise: Just enough to keep the dressing velvety and satisfyingly rich.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brings a bright, tangy lift that balances all the flavors.
- Honey: A touch of natural sweetness that ties the whole dish together.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and highlighting every fresh, crisp ingredient.
How to Make Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Produce
Start by washing and thoroughly drying your broccoli florets and Honeycrisp apples. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and core, then chop, the apples. Shred your carrots (or buy them pre-shredded if you’re in a hurry), and finely chop the red onion. Prepping everything ahead of time makes assembly a total breeze!
Step 2: Mix the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, apples, shredded carrots, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and nuts (if you’re using them). Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly and soak in the burst of colors — this salad is truly a feast for the eyes!
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, add Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. This dressing is what makes the Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe shine — it’s light, tangy, and perfectly sweet.
Step 4: Assemble and Toss
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, toss everything together until every little morsel is nicely coated with the creamy dressing. Be gentle — you want every bite to have a bit of everything!
Step 5: Chill for Best Flavor
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to a container with a lid. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This little rest lets all the flavors meld together, making the Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle a handful of extra sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, or a few apple slices on top just before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, a little cooked crumbled bacon adds a smoky crunch that guests will rave about.
Side Dishes
This salad is versatile! It’s right at home next to grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or a simple baked potato. It’s also a fresh, colorful contrast to richer dishes at picnics or holiday tables.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe in individual mason jars for lunches on the go, or pile it onto a bed of mixed greens for even more color and nutrients. Scooping it into lettuce cups also makes a fun, salad-inspired appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay crisp and delicious for up to 2 days, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Freezing
Unfortunately, this salad doesn’t freeze well. The fresh apples and broccoli lose their texture after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed within a couple of days of making.
Reheating
This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe is designed to be served cold. No reheating required! Just give it a quick toss and enjoy straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I make this salad dairy free?
Absolutely! Just swap the Greek yogurt for your favorite non-dairy yogurt (like coconut or almond-based), and you’ll still achieve a creamy, tangy dressing.
What’s the best way to keep apples from browning?
Using Honeycrisp apples helps since they brown more slowly, but assembling the salad just before serving or tossing the apples with a little lemon juice works like a charm too.
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, but Honeycrisp apples bring an exceptional crisp texture and balanced sweetness that really makes this Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe stand out. Fuji or Pink Lady are good alternatives if you need to substitute.
How can I add protein to this salad?
Toss in some cooked, diced chicken breast or chickpeas for a heartier meal, or sprinkle on a handful of shredded cheddar if you love cheesy salads!
Is it okay to make this salad ahead for a potluck?
Definitely! In fact, making it a few hours in advance gives all the flavors time to come together. Just stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a showstopping side or a fresh new way to enjoy crisp apples and vibrant veggies, I can’t recommend this Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe enough. It’s truly one of those dishes that disappears fast — don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your kitchen too. Give it a try, and let its crunch, color, and creamy-tangy flavor brighten up any meal!
Print
Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a delightful mix of fresh broccoli, sweet Honeycrisp apples, crunchy nuts, and a tangy-sweet dressing. It’s a perfect side dish for any occasion, from picnics to family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup roasted sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Main Salad: In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, apples, carrots, red onion, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and nuts if using.
- Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until evenly coated.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add cooked and crumbled bacon.
- To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- Best enjoyed within 2 days of preparing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
