This Apple Salad is a crisp, refreshing, and lightly sweet dish that’s perfect for lunch, side dishes, or as a healthy snack. With crunchy apples, juicy grapes, creamy mayonnaise dressing, and a hint of brown sugar, it’s a classic combination that everyone loves.
Loaded with texture from pecans and dried cranberries, this salad brings together the best of fall flavors in one bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍏 Fresh & Crisp: Honeycrisp apples add natural sweetness and crunch.
- 🥣 No Cooking Required: Just chop, mix, and chill—ready in minutes.
- 🌰 Nutty Crunch: Pecans bring a rich, buttery texture.
- 🍇 Sweet & Tangy Mix: Grapes and cranberries balance everything with a fruity pop.
- 📦 Make Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after chilling for 30 minutes or more.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
- 4 large Honeycrisp apples , cubed (or Fuji/Pink Lady as alternatives)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1½ tablespoons brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 ribs celery , thinly sliced
- 1 cup seedless red grapes , halved
- ½ cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted for extra flavor if desired)
- ½ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or sweetened, based on preference)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Begin by washing and coring the apples , then dicing them into bite-sized pieces.
Toss the apple cubes with the lemon juice right away to prevent browning and keep them crisp.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Brown sugar
Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Add the following to the bowl with the dressing:
- Lemon-tossed apple cubes
- Sliced celery
- Grapes
- Pecans
- Dried cranberries
Gently stir everything together until evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and the apples to stay crisp without turning mushy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light lunch.
Perfect for holiday meals, potlucks, or as a topping over grilled chicken for a heartier meal!
Tips for Success:
- 🧀 Optional Add-In: Add crumbled feta or blue cheese for a savory twist.
- 🥣 Lighter Option: Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
- 🥗 Meal Prep Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—add nuts just before serving to keep them crunchy.
- 🍊 Citrus Boost: A splash of orange zest can take the flavor to the next level.
- 🍐 Switch Up Fruit: Add pears or raisins for variety.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with sandwiches, turkey, or ham for a classic combo.
- Use as a topping for pork chops or grilled chicken.
- Scoop onto lettuce leaves for a quick low-carb lunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 6 servings):
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~11g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~14g
This Apple Salad is a timeless favorite—sweet, tart, and packed with satisfying textures. Whether you’re bringing something to a family dinner, preparing a picnic spread, or just craving a fresh treat, this salad delivers every time.
Try it once and you’ll be making it again and again!
