Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Mix

This crisp and colorful broccoli salad combines the sweet crunch of Honeycrisp apples with fresh broccoli, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures that works beautifully as both a side dish and light lunch option.

I first created this salad when looking for ways to use the abundance of autumn apples from our local orchard. My skeptical husband, who typically avoids raw broccoli, went back for seconds and now requests this salad regularly throughout apple season.

Ingredients

• Broccoli florets the foundation of this salad providing crunch and nutrition choose bright green heads with tight florets
• Honeycrisp apple delivers unmatched sweetness and crispness select firm fruits with vibrant red coloring
• Dried cranberries add chewy texture and tart sweetness look for unsweetened varieties if possible
• Chopped pecans contribute essential richness and nutty flavor toast them lightly to enhance their taste
• Red onion provides a gentle sharpness that balances the sweet elements slice very thinly to prevent overpowering
• Sharp cheddar brings savory depth an aged white cheddar works beautifully here
• Mayonnaise creates the creamy base for the dressing full fat yields the best flavor
• Apple cider vinegar adds brightness and helps cut through the richness use unfiltered for more apple flavor
• Honey naturally sweetens the dressing local honey offers subtle floral notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the vegetables

Chop broccoli into small, bite-sized florets no larger than a quarter to ensure they absorb the dressing properly. Dice the red onion very finely so it distributes evenly throughout the salad without overwhelming any single bite.

Prepare the fruit and nuts

Core and dice the Honeycrisp apple into half-inch cubes, leaving the skin on for color and nutrients. If using whole nuts, rough chop them to create varied textures throughout the salad.

Mix the base ingredients

Combine all salad ingredients gently in a large bowl, distributing the components evenly to ensure each serving contains a good mix of colors and textures.

Create the dressing

Whisk mayonnaise until smooth before adding the apple cider vinegar in a slow stream while continuing to whisk. Add honey and seasonings, adjusting to taste. The dressing should be pourable but thick enough to cling to the salad ingredients.

Combine and chill

Pour dressing over the salad mixture and fold gently until every piece is lightly coated. Be careful not to overmix which can crush the delicate broccoli florets. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 2 hours provides the best flavor development.

Final toss and serve

Just before serving, gently toss the salad again to redistribute any dressing that may have settled. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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The Honeycrisp apple truly makes this salad special. I discovered this after trying several varieties in this recipe. The Honeycrisp maintains its crispness even when dressed and provides the perfect sweet counterpoint to the earthy broccoli. I always keep an extra apple on hand to add freshly diced pieces just before serving for maximum crunch.

Make It Your Own

This salad welcomes customization based on what you have available. Swap Honeycrisp for Gala or Pink Lady apples when needed. For a more substantial meal, add diced chicken or turkey. Vegans can replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free substitute. The honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a different flavor profile that complements the apples beautifully.

Storage Tips

This broccoli salad keeps remarkably well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container and give it a gentle toss before serving. If making ahead for a gathering, consider keeping the dressing separate until 30 minutes before serving. The apples may brown slightly over time but this doesn't affect the taste. A quick squeeze of lemon juice over the diced apples can help prevent browning if appearance is important.

Seasonal Variations

While this salad shines in fall when Honeycrisp apples are at their peak, you can adapt it year-round. In summer, replace dried cranberries with fresh blueberries or halved grapes. Winter versions work well with the addition of citrus segments. Spring calls for tender asparagus tips mixed with the broccoli. The versatile dressing complements all these seasonal shifts while maintaining the salad's refreshing character.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use other sweet apple varieties, like Fuji or Gala, though Honeycrisp provides the ideal balance of sweetness and crispness.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?

You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a lighter option, though it will slightly alter the flavor and texture.

→ Can this salad be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a day ahead. However, to keep the vegetables and apples crisp, store the dressing separately and toss them together just before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors may deepen, but the texture might soften.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, bacon bits, or cooked quinoa are great options for adding protein and making it a heartier dish.