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This honeycrisp apple broccoli salad brings a fresh crunch and a touch of sweetness to your table. It combines garden-fresh broccoli with juicy Honeycrisp apples, nuts, and a creamy honey-mustard dressing for a quick and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for warm-weather meals or as a vibrant side whenever you need a little brightness on your plate.
I first shared this at a family picnic and everyone loved how the apples and cheese complemented the broccoli. Now it’s requested whenever the season calls for something fresh and simple.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets: four cups chopped provide a crunchy base rich in vitamins
- Honeycrisp apple: one large diced adds natural sweetness and firmness
- Dried cranberries: half cup contribute chewiness and a burst of tartness
- Pecans or walnuts: half cup chopped offer toasty flavor and a satisfying crunch
- Red onion: one quarter cup finely diced brings a sharp bite that balances the sweetness
- Sharp cheddar cheese: half cup shredded adds creamy and tangy depth
- Mayonnaise: half cup acts as the creamy binder for the dressing
- Apple cider vinegar: two tablespoons gives the dressing a bright tang
- Honey: one tablespoon sweetens and rounds out the dressing flavors
- Salt and pepper: to taste enhance and balance the overall dish
Tips for Selecting Ingredients
When selecting your Honeycrisp apple look for one with firm flesh and a bright skin to ensure crispness. Fresh broccoli crowns should have tight florets and a vibrant green color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Salad ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, diced Honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, nuts, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure the apple is freshly cut to maintain crispness and prevent browning.
- Whisk the Dressing components:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This creates a creamy dressing with just the right balance of sweet and tangy.
- Combine and Chill:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to coat every bite with flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to marry and the broccoli to soften slightly without losing crunch.
- Final Toss and Serve:
- Before serving, give the salad one last toss to redistribute the dressing and mix in any settled ingredients. Serve chilled as a refreshing side or a light meal.
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My favorite ingredient has to be the Honeycrisp apple. Its crispness and slightly tart flavor make every bite lively and fresh. I remember one Thanksgiving when I brought this salad and it disappeared faster than the pumpkin pie, surprising everyone with a refreshing alternative to the usual sides.
Storage Tips
Store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For best texture, avoid making it too far in advance since the apples and broccoli will slowly soften. If prepping early, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap pecans or walnuts for toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for different crunch options. Try substituting Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise to lighten the dressing without losing creaminess. Use a milder cheese like Monterey Jack if sharp cheddar is too strong for your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or pork for a wholesome balanced meal. It pairs well with sandwiches and burgers adding a bright, refreshing crunch. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of apples work best here?
Firm and crisp apples like Honeycrisp add a sweet tartness and hold their texture well when mixed.
- → Can I substitute the nuts?
Yes, pecans or walnuts both provide a crunchy contrast and complement the salad's sweetness.
- → How should the dressing be prepared?
Whisk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth for a balanced creamy and tangy dressing.
- → Is it necessary to refrigerate before serving?
Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and enhances the crisp texture.
- → Can cheddar cheese be omitted?
Yes, but shredded sharp cheddar adds a savory note that balances the sweetness of the apples and honey.