Apple Salad is a delightful combination of crisp Honeycrisp apples, juicy red grapes, crunchy pecans, and chewy dried cranberries, all tossed together in a tangy mayo-brown sugar dressing. This refreshing salad is perfect for fall or any time you want a light, flavorful side dish. The fresh lemon juice prevents the apples from browning, while the creamy dressing adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples and cranberries. It's easy to prepare and requires no cooking, making it a great option for holiday gatherings or weekday meals.
This Apple Salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that combines the crispness of Honeycrisp apples with the juicy sweetness of grapes, the crunch of pecans, and the chewy texture of dried cranberries. The dressing is a simple yet delicious blend of mayonnaise and brown sugar, adding a creamy and slightly tangy flavor that perfectly complements the fruit. A squeeze of lemon juice helps to keep the apples fresh and bright, making this salad a visually appealing addition to any table. It’s quick to prepare and can be chilled to enhance the flavors, making it a perfect choice for holiday gatherings or potlucks.
INGREDIENTS
- Honeycrisp apples: 4 large, cubed for their crisp, sweet flavor.
- Lemon juice: From 1 lemon, to prevent the apples from browning.
- Mayonnaise: ⅓ cup, for the creamy dressing.
- Brown sugar: 1½ tbsp, adds sweetness to balance the tanginess.
- Celery: 2 ribs, thinly sliced, adds crunch to the salad.
- Seedless red grapes: 1 cup, halved for sweetness.
- Pecans: ½ cup, chopped, for a nutty crunch.
- Dried cranberries: ½ cup, for a sweet-tart chewiness.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Drizzle the cubed apples with fresh lemon juice to prevent browning and toss to coat evenly.
- Step 2:
- In a small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup mayonnaise and 1½ tbsp brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, combine the apples, celery, grapes, pecans, and cranberries. Toss gently to mix.
- Step 4:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 5:
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Apple Salad chilled for the best flavor. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Add a garnish of fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint, for an extra pop of color and freshness.
Helpful Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a blend of mayo and yogurt.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Olivia suggests adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dressing to enhance the fall flavors in this salad.
How to Make the Perfect Apple Salad
To make the perfect Apple Salad, ensure the apples are evenly coated with lemon juice to prevent them from browning. The tangy lemon not only keeps the apples fresh but also adds a bright flavor that balances the sweetness of the grapes and cranberries. Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making the salad even more delicious.
FAQs
Can I use green apples instead of Honeycrisp?
Yes, you can use any apple variety, but Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Summary
This Apple Salad combines the refreshing crunch of Honeycrisp apples with the sweet-tart flavors of grapes and cranberries, plus the earthy crunch of chopped pecans. The dressing, made from mayonnaise and brown sugar, adds a tangy, creamy element that ties the dish together. The addition of lemon juice helps to keep the apples from browning, making the salad both visually appealing and delicious. Serve this easy, no-cook salad chilled for best results. It's an ideal side dish for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a light, refreshing lunch.