Apple Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this apple salad because it’s quick to prepare yet packed with vibrant flavors and textures. The natural sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the crunch of toasted walnuts and the slight bite from red onions. The creamy Greek yogurt dressing, brightened with lemon juice and honey, adds a tangy balance that makes every bite irresistible. It’s a versatile dish that works well as a healthy snack or a light side to complement any meal.

Ingredients

3 large apples, cored and thinly sliced

1/2 cup celery, chopped

1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

1/3 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, celery, red onion, walnuts, and dried cranberries.

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep time is about 15 minutes, with no cooking required. It’s a great option when I need a fast, fresh dish without heating anything up.

Variations

I sometimes switch up the nuts depending on what I have on hand—pecans or almonds work well too. For a vegan twist, I replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and swap honey for maple syrup. Adding a little shredded carrot or some chopped celery leaves gives it extra freshness and color. If I want it sweeter, I toss in a bit more dried cranberries or a splash of apple cider vinegar in place of lemon juice for a sharper tang.

Storage/reheating

I keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Because this is a fresh salad with raw apples and yogurt, I don’t recommend reheating it—it’s best served chilled and fresh to keep the crisp textures intact.

Related Recipes:

• Carrot Apple Salad
• Apple Crisp
• Banana Bread Cookies

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples in this salad?

Yes, I usually choose sweet-tart apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp, but Granny Smith apples add a nice tangy crunch if you prefer.

How long can I store this salad?

I find it stays fresh and crisp for about 1 to 2 days in the refrigerator, stored in an airtight container.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

I prefer making it fresh, but if needed, I prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it chilled. To avoid browning, toss the apples immediately with lemon juice and yogurt dressing.

Can I substitute walnuts for other nuts?

Definitely. Pecans, almonds, or even cashews work well and bring a slightly different flavor and texture.

Is there a way to make this salad vegan?

Yes! I swap the Greek yogurt for coconut or almond yogurt and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Conclusion

This apple salad is one of my go-to recipes when I want something healthy, tasty, and quick. Its balance of crisp fruit, crunchy nuts, and creamy, tangy dressing always hits the spot. Whether I’m serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a snack, it’s refreshing and satisfying every time