Print

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 77 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad combining crisp broccoli florets, sweet and tart Honeycrisp apples, and a medley of crunchy and tangy toppings all tossed in a creamy, slightly sweet dressing. Perfect as a side dish for any meal or a light, healthy snack.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 1 large head broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets (about 4 cups)
  • 2 Honeycrisp apples, chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/3 cup toasted chopped pecans
  • 2 scallions, diced

For the Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
  • A few turns of fresh cracked pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli: Rinse the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized florets. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Chop the Apples: Core and chop the Honeycrisp apples into small chunks, then add them to the bowl with broccoli. The Honeycrisp variety lends a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavor and maintains a crisp texture.
  3. Add Remaining Salad Ingredients: Add the shredded carrots, diced red onion, dried cranberries, toasted chopped pecans, and diced scallions to the bowl. Toss gently to combine all the salad ingredients evenly.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, coarse salt, and fresh cracked pepper until smooth and well combined.
  5. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure every ingredient is coated with the dressing without bruising the apples or broccoli.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and the salad chill. This step enhances the taste and texture before serving.
  7. Serve: Give the salad a final gentle toss, then serve chilled as a fresh, crunchy side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light meals.

Notes

  • For best flavor and crunch, use freshly toasted pecans.
  • You can substitute Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier dressing.
  • If Honeycrisp apples are unavailable, Fuji or Gala apples are good alternatives.
  • To prevent apple browning, toss chopped apples with a splash of lemon juice before adding to the salad.
  • This salad can be prepared a day ahead; just add the nuts right before serving to keep them crunchy.