Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

This salad is a refreshing addition to any meal, featuring a creamy, tangy dressing that ties the crisp fruits and vegetables together.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces

• 1 large Honeycrisp apple, diced

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a tangier profile)

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• A pinch of salt and black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli thoroughly and pat it dry. Chop the florets into very small pieces; smaller florets capture the dressing better and provide a more uniform crunch.

2. Dice the Apple: Dice your Honeycrisp apple into half-inch cubes.

   • Tip: If you are not serving the salad immediately, toss the apple chunks in a little lemon juice to prevent them from browning.

3. Combine the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, apple, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, and red onion.

4. Whisk the Dressing: In a small separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.

5. Toss and Coat: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently with large spoons until every piece of broccoli and apple is evenly coated.

6. Chill and Set: For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to soften the broccoli slightly and the flavors to meld together.

Why This Recipe Works

• The Crunch: Honeycrisp apples are prized for their firm, juicy texture which stays crisp even after being tossed in dressing.

• The Balance: The sharpness of the red onion and the tang of the vinegar perfectly offset the sweetness of the cranberries and honey.