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Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a crunchy, refreshing side dish made with fresh broccoli, sweet Honeycrisp apples, dried cranberries, and a creamy apple cider dressing. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or an easy make-ahead lunch!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

Salad
  • 4 cups broccoli florets chopped small
  • 2 apples about 2 cups, chopped
  • 1 large Honeycrisp apple diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/3 cup slivered almonds
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese optional but delicious
Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Small whisk (for dressing)

Method
 

  1. Prep the broccoli – Chop the florets into small bite-sized pieces.
  2. Dice the apples – I keep the peel on for color and crunch. Toss them in a splash of lemon juice if you want to keep them extra fresh.
  3. Mix the dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, sugar, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or tang as you like.
  4. Combine the salad – In a large bowl, toss broccoli, apples, onion, cranberries, nuts, and cheese.
  5. Add the dressing – Pour dressing over the salad and toss until everything is coated.
  6. Chill & serve – Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld (optional, but I think it makes it better).

Notes

This recipe works with many apple varieties, but Honeycrisp is my favorite for its crisp texture and balance of sweet and tart flavor.