Name: HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped; 1 large Honeycrisp apple, diced; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts; 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 19 reviews

Get ready to fall in love with the delightful crunch and vibrant flavors of HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD. This irresistible dish brings together crisp broccoli, juicy Honeycrisp apples, sweet dried cranberries, and a tangy homemade dressing for a salad that never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious side dish, a standout potluck contribution, or just a fresh way to enjoy your favorite produce, this salad is sure to become your new go-to.

HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD is naturally simple, yet plays a starring role in building the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Grab your chopping board and let’s talk about why these staples are essential to making this salad sing!

Broccoli Florets: The foundation of the salad—choose fresh, vibrant green florets for the best crunch and color.
Honeycrisp Apple: The star of the show—this variety delivers sweetness, tartness, and a satisfying juiciness in every bite.
Dried Cranberries: Add bursts of chewy sweetness that complement the apple and contrast with the savory elements.
Pecans or Walnuts: Chopped nuts bring a lovely nuttiness and a hearty crunch; both pecans and walnuts work beautifully, so use your favorite.
Red Onion: Finely diced for a mild kick and color contrast—red onion gives a fresh, zesty finish.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Optional): For extra richness and depth, opt for a high-quality cheddar—but the salad is delicious even without it.
Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the dressing and helps all the flavors meld together.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Balances the dressing with subtle tang and brightness—don’t skip this one!
Honey: Adds a gentle sweetness that pulls all the flavors together; adjust to taste for your sweet tooth.
Salt and Pepper: Essential finishing touches that bring out every ingredient’s best.

How to Make HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD

Step 1: Prep the Veggies and Fruit

Start by chopping the broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces—this makes the salad easier to eat and ensures every forkful has a bit of everything. Dice that gorgeous Honeycrisp apple right before assembly to preserve its fresh color and juicy crispness. Red onion should be finely diced to distribute its flavor gently throughout the salad. If you want to go extra colorful, leave the apple skin on!

Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients

In your largest salad bowl, add the chopped broccoli, freshly diced Honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, red onion, and shredded cheddar if using. Give it all a quick toss to make sure the ingredients are mixed evenly and every scoop will deliver that sweet-savory harmony.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Dressing

In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, some salt, and a crack of black pepper. This dressing comes together in a snap and should be silky smooth. Taste and tweak—add more honey if you prefer a sweeter bite or more vinegar for extra tang.

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Pour your luscious dressing over the salad ingredients. With a gentle hand, toss everything thoroughly until every ingredient is glossy and coated. The broccoli and apples will soak up some of the dressing, so don’t be shy mixing it well!

Step 5: Chill and Marinate

Patience pays off here! Place the whole salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows all the bright, punchy flavors of your HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD to meld together. This short rest is the secret to that irresistible flavor you’ll want again and again.

How to Serve HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra chopped nuts, a few whole dried cranberries, or a dusting of freshly shredded cheddar on top right before serving for an irresistibly inviting look. A handful of fresh herbs like parsley or chives also adds a lively pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

This salad is a knockout next to grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or veggie burgers for a fresh contrast. For potlucks and barbecues, it stands out beside anything smoky or hearty, making every bite more vibrant and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon the salad into lettuce cups for a fun, handheld appetizer, or serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a more dramatic side. For something truly unique, try layering it in individual mason jars—perfect for picnics or packed lunches!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftover HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD keeps nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The flavors intensify without the apples turning mushy, so don’t hesitate to prepare it ahead for easy lunches or snacks.

Freezing

It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the crisp textures of broccoli and apples break down when thawed. The result would be watery and lose the fresh crunch that makes this dish magic—enjoy it fresh for the best experience.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be savored cold or at cool room temperature; there’s no need to reheat. If you’re pulling it straight from the fridge, let it sit for a few minutes to take off the chill and allow the flavors to shine.

FAQs

Can I substitute a different apple if I can’t find Honeycrisp?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples are the top choice for their sweet, crisp bite, Fuji or Gala apples work well as alternatives. Just aim for something juicy and firm to keep that signature crunch in your HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD.

Is there a way to make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply swap out the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative, and skip the cheddar cheese or use your favorite plant-based cheese. The honey can also be replaced with maple syrup or agave for a vegan-friendly twist.

Can I make HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD the night before?

Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day ahead. For the freshest taste and best texture, wait to add the dressing until just an hour or so before serving. This way, the apples stay perky and the broccoli retains its crunch.

What else can I add for extra flavor?

Feel free to toss in sunflower seeds, swap in smoked gouda for the cheddar, or add a handful of cooked bacon bits (if not vegetarian) for smoky depth. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!

Does the salad get watery if left in the fridge?

After a full day, the apples and broccoli may start releasing juices and turning the salad slightly watery. Stirring before serving helps, but for the best texture, enjoy your HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD within 24 hours.

Final Thoughts

If you want a salad that will win over hearts (and appetites!) at any meal, this HONEYCRISP APPLE BROCCOLI SALAD is the one to make. Its playful crunch, pops of sweetness, and tangy dressing come together in the happiest harmony. Don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe—just smile and enjoy the compliments!