🥗 Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad
Bright, crunchy, sweet, and savory—this is the ultimate fresh salad for every season.
ChatGPT said: If you’re looking for a salad that hits every note—crunchy, creamy, sweet, tangy, and a little savory—this Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is the one. It’s a beautiful blend of fresh broccoli, crisp apples, chewy cranberries, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy dressing that pulls it all together. The addition of toasted nuts and a hint of red onion gives it just the right edge.
It’s perfect as a side dish for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners—and hearty enough to serve as a light lunch on its own. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep.
🛒 Ingredients
→ Salad
4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
1 large Honeycrisp apple, diced (skin on adds color and texture)
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toast for extra flavor)
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Dressing
1/2 cup mayonnaise (or half mayo and half Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for natural sweetness)
Salt and pepper, to taste
👨🍳 Directions
1. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning—add more vinegar if you like it tangy, or more honey for sweetness.
2. Combine the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add:
Chopped broccoli
Diced Honeycrisp apple
Dried cranberries
Chopped nuts
Red onion
Shredded cheddar cheese
Toss gently to distribute all ingredients evenly.
3. Toss with Dressing
Pour the dressing over the salad and mix until everything is evenly coated. Be sure the broccoli and apples are well-dressed so every bite is flavorful.
4. Chill & Serve
Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to slightly soften while still retaining its crunch.
🔁 Variations
Add bacon bits for a smoky twist.
Use sunflower seeds instead of nuts for a nut-free option.
Swap cheddar for feta or gouda for a different cheesy vibe.
Add a touch of Dijon mustard to the dressing for an extra zing.
🍽 Serving Ideas
As a side for grilled chicken, turkey burgers, or pulled pork.
Spoon into lettuce cups for a crunchy, fresh wrap.
Pack into jars or containers for a ready-to-go lunch.
🧊 Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, but the apple may start to brown slightly—toss with a little lemon juice to prevent that if prepping ahead.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is one of those recipes that surprises people. “I don’t usually like broccoli salads,” they’ll say—until they take a bite. It’s fresh, balanced, and totally crave-worthy.