Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Name: Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Honeycrisp apples, diced; 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a vibrant and nutritious salad to add to your repertoire? This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a delightful blend of crisp apples, fresh broccoli, and a medley of complementary flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Packed with wholesome ingredients and a tangy-sweet dressing, it’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at any gathering.

Ingredients:

2 Honeycrisp apples, diced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

4 cups fresh broccoli florets

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup sliced almonds

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons honey

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Prepare Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced Honeycrisp apples, broccoli florets, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and red onion.

Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat evenly.

Add Cheese: Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to incorporate it throughout the salad.

Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serve: Enjoy your Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad as a refreshing and nutritious meal or side dish!

Serving Tips:

Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle additional sliced almonds or dried cranberries on top for a decorative touch.

Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or even as a topping for a bed of mixed greens for a heartier meal.

Presentation: Serve in a chilled glass bowl or on a platter lined with fresh lettuce leaves to enhance visual appeal.

Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared up to a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, ensuring flavors meld even more.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2-3 days.

Dressing Separation: If dressing separates slightly upon storage, simply give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute flavors.

Cheese Freshness: If preparing ahead, consider adding the shredded cheddar cheese just before serving to maintain its freshness and texture.

Best Enjoyed Fresh: While the salad holds up well for a couple of days, it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the apples and broccoli.

Related Recipes:

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of apple instead of Honeycrisp?

Yes, you can substitute Honeycrisp apples with other varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith. Choose an apple that is crisp and slightly sweet to maintain the balance of flavors in the salad.

How can I make this salad more protein-rich?

To increase the protein content, you can add grilled chicken breast strips, diced cooked ham, or even chickpeas to the salad. These additions will enhance the salad’s nutritional profile and make it more filling.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time. It actually tastes better when the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Prepare the salad without dressing, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add the dressing and cheese just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Can I omit or substitute any ingredients?

Certainly! Feel free to adjust this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. If you don’t have dried cranberries, you can substitute with raisins or chopped apricots. For a nut-free version, omit the sliced almonds or replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.

Conclusion:

Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a barbecue, or simply looking for a wholesome meal option, this Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is versatile and easy to prepare. Its colorful presentation and refreshing taste make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

📖 Recipe: