Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe

This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad combines the sweetness of Honeycrisp apples with the savory crunch of fresh broccoli, all tossed in a creamy dressing. It’s a perfect side dish for holiday meals, potlucks, or even a light and refreshing lunch. The combination of flavors and textures will leave your taste buds satisfied!

Ingredients:

• 2 large Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup red onion, finely diced
• ½ cup dried cranberries (or raisins)
• ½ cup unsalted sunflower seeds (or nuts of your choice, such as walnuts or almonds)
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for added flavor)

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or regular yogurt)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy twist)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

1. Wash and dry the Honeycrisp apples, then core and dice them into bite-sized pieces. There’s no need to peel them, as the skin adds a nice texture and nutritional value.
2. Wash and chop the broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces. If the stems are thick, peel them and slice them thinly to include them in the salad.
3. Finely dice the red onion, and set aside.
4. In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped apples, broccoli florets, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard (if using).
2. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting the flavors to your preference.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

1. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients, and toss everything together until well coated. The yogurt dressing will add a creamy texture that complements the crunch of the broccoli and the sweetness of the apples.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also serve it immediately if you’re short on time.
2. Just before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with extra sunflower seeds or cheese if desired.

Why This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a Must-Try:

• Fresh and Crunchy: The combination of crisp, sweet Honeycrisp apples and crunchy broccoli makes this salad incredibly refreshing and satisfying.
• Nutritious: This salad is packed with healthy ingredients, including fiber-rich broccoli, antioxidants from the apples, and healthy fats from the sunflower seeds.
• Versatile: It’s a great side dish for any meal, from a Thanksgiving feast to a summer BBQ. You can also customize it with other nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to suit your preferences.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, this salad is quick to assemble and perfect for meal prepping.

Pro Tips:

• Make It Vegan: To make this salad vegan, substitute the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives, and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Add More Texture: For extra crunch, add some crispy bacon bits or crumbled feta cheese.
• Store Leftovers: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The broccoli may soften over time, but it will still taste great!

Perfect Pairings:

• Pair this Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad with grilled chicken, turkey, or any protein for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside roast pork or a BBQ platter for a balanced, flavorful meal.
• If you’re looking for other side dishes, try pairing this salad with a quinoa pilaf or a lightly dressed green salad.