Light, refreshing, and bursting with crunch and flavor, this Apple Salad is a crowd-pleaser year-round. Whether you’re serving it as a fresh side dish for a holiday dinner, a light lunch, or a sweet-savory addition to brunch, this salad balances sweet apples, crisp veggies, nuts, and a creamy dressing perfectly.
The key? A mix of tart and sweet apples (like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp), a crunchy element (like walnuts or pecans), and a creamy-yet-tangy dressing that ties it all together. It’s a salad that feels indulgent but is actually quite wholesome — full of fiber, nutrients, and texture.
It’s a go-to for entertaining and incredibly easy to throw together in just minutes!
🛒 Ingredients
- 3 medium apples (a mix of sweet and tart – such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- ½ cup celery, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely sliced (optional for a savory kick)
- ⅓ cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted
- ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins
- ½ cup seedless red grapes, halved (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prep the apples
Core and chop the apples into bite-sized cubes. Toss with lemon juice in a large mixing bowl to keep them from browning. - Add the salad ingredients
To the apples, add sliced celery, red onion (if using), nuts, cranberries, and grapes. Gently mix to combine. - Make the dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. - Combine and chill
Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and gently fold everything together until well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. - Serve chilled
Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with extra nuts or cranberries, and serve cold.
🍽 Nutrition Information (per serving – serves 6)
- Calories: 230
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 140mg
✅ Tips & Tricks
- Use a mix of apples for the best balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken for a full meal.
- Go dairy-free: Use a plant-based mayo and skip the yogurt.
- Make it fall-friendly: Add sliced pears, pomegranate seeds, or a dash of cinnamon.
- For extra crunch: Sprinkle sunflower seeds or chopped almonds on top before serving.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
This apple salad pairs perfectly with:
- Roast turkey or chicken
- Pork chops or grilled sausages
- Quiche or savory tarts
- Holiday spreads or potluck tables
You can also serve it inside lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld option.
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