Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans & Dried Cranberries

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Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans & Dried Cranberries

 Description

This Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples is a crisp, refreshing, and slightly sweet salad packed with crunchy apples, juicy grapes, fresh celery, toasted pecans, and chewy dried cranberries. Tossed in a light honey dressing, it’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors. This salad works beautifully as a holiday side dish, potluck favorite, or quick healthy lunch.

 Ingredients

Salad

  • 2 large Honeycrisp apples, diced

  • 1 cup green grapes, halved

  • 1 cup red grapes, halved

  • 2 celery stalks, finely sliced

  • ½ cup pecans, toasted

  • ½ cup dried cranberries

  • 3 cups chopped lettuce or mixed greens

Honey Dressing

  • 3 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • ½ tsp Dijon mustard

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional additions:

  • ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts

 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Fruit & Veggies

Wash and chop the apples, grapes, and celery. If desired, toss the apples in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.

2️⃣ Toast the Pecans

Place pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat and toast for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

3️⃣ Make the Dressing

In a small bowl whisk together:

  • olive oil

  • honey

  • apple cider vinegar

  • Dijon mustard

  • salt and pepper

Whisk until smooth.

4️⃣ Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl combine:

  • lettuce

  • apples

  • grapes

  • celery

  • cranberries

  • pecans

5️⃣ Toss and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is coated.

Serve immediately.

 Servings

Serves 4–6 people

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes (for pecans)
Total Time: 13 minutes

 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 210

  • Carbohydrates: 28 g

  • Protein: 3 g

  • Fat: 10 g

  • Fiber: 4 g

  • Sugar: 20 g

(Values vary depending on ingredients.)

 Benefits of This Recipe

✅ High in fiber from apples and celery
✅ Rich in antioxidants from grapes and cranberries
✅ Heart-healthy fats from pecans
✅ Naturally sweet and refreshing
✅ Perfect for meal prep or holiday meals

 Recipe Notes

  • Honeycrisp apples are ideal because they are extra crunchy and sweet-tart.

  • You can substitute Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples if needed.

  • This salad tastes best freshly tossed before serving.

 Tips for Best Results

⭐ Toss apples in lemon juice to keep them from browning.
⭐ Use toasted nuts for deeper flavor.
⭐ Add dressing just before serving to keep lettuce crisp.
⭐ Chill the salad for 15 minutes for extra refreshing flavor.

 Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the ingredients ahead, but add the dressing just before serving.

Q2: Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Simply skip the cheese or use a plant-based option.

Q3: What protein can I add?

Grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas work great.

Q4: Can I store leftovers?

Store in the refrigerator for 1–2 days, though it’s best fresh.

Q5: What pairs well with this salad?

It pairs well with roast chicken, turkey, pork, or holiday dinners.

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