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Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad brings together everything I want in a salad when the weather warms up plenty of crunch sweet juicy apples tangy dressing and a bit of nuttiness all in every single bite It works perfectly as a side for picnics or just as a fast lunch when you crave something refreshing and colorful
I put this salad together for a last minute backyard dinner and everyone raved about it now my family asks for it on repeat all season long
Ingredients
- Fresh broccoli florets: choose a vibrant deep green for best flavor and crunch
- Honeycrisp apples: dice without peeling for extra color and sweetness pick ones that feel heavy for their size
- Dried cranberries: look for plump pieces for more tart chew
- Toasted sliced almonds: brings a nutty crunch toast just until golden for peak aroma
- Red onion: adds a mild sharpness slice as thin as possible or leave out if you prefer a milder salad
- Mayonnaise: use real mayo for creaminess
- Greek yogurt or sour cream: adds tang and lightness use full fat for creamier results
- Apple cider vinegar: brightens the flavors try to select unfiltered for depth
- Honey or maple syrup: balances tang with gentle sweetness use local honey if possible
- Lemon juice: keeps apples from browning and brightens everything
- Salt and black pepper: adjusts to your own taste
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Wash broccoli thoroughly and spin or pat dry Cut into very small bite sized florets This step makes the salad easier to eat and ensures everything gets coated nicely with dressing
- Dice the Apples:
- Keep skins on for texture and nutrients Dice apples into half inch cubes Place in a bowl and toss with lemon juice so they do not turn brown
- Toast the Almonds:
- Place sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat Stir constantly for about three or four minutes until they smell fragrant and turn golden brown Transfer to a plate so they do not burn
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a small bowl whisk mayonnaise Greek yogurt apple cider vinegar honey salt and black pepper until completely smooth Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference
- Combine and Toss:
- In a large mixing bowl combine broccoli apples cranberries and red onion if using Pour all the dressing over the top and toss gently but thoroughly until every piece is coated
- Add Almonds and Chill:
- Scatter toasted almonds over the salad just before serving so they stay crisp Chill salad in the fridge for at least fifteen minutes for best flavor and crunchy texture
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I absolutely love the Honeycrisp apples in this salad for their sweet tart crunch I remember the first time making this at a holiday potluck my nephew kept picking out the apple pieces and by the end the bowl was left with just the broccoli
Storage Tips
This salad keeps its crunch in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days For longer storage add almonds and dressing just before serving to keep everything crispy If transporting to a picnic pack dressing and almonds separately
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in gala apples or pink lady apples for a similar sweet crisp bite If you do not have dried cranberries golden raisins work nicely Sunflower seeds offer a nut free crunch instead of almonds And for the dressing even plain yogurt can work in a pinch
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this alongside grilled chicken or burgers at any barbecue It also makes a terrific base for a vegetarian lunch just add some chickpeas or grilled tofu For a more festive twist toss in crumbled feta or goat cheese
Cultural and Historical Context
Broccoli salads like this one have roots in American church suppers and family reunions often showing up at potlucks since the nineteen seventies The blend of creamy tangy and sweet has made it a classic in many Midwest homes and now with apples added it gets an even brighter upgrade for modern tastes
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the salad a few hours in advance. Add the dressing just before serving and keep the almonds separate for the best crunch.
- → What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
Sour cream makes a great substitute for Greek yogurt, giving a similar creamy tang to the dressing.
- → How do I keep the apples from browning?
Toss diced Honeycrisp apples with a little lemon juice immediately after cutting to help maintain their color and freshness.
- → Is it possible to make this salad dairy-free?
Swap the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for dairy-free or vegan versions to keep the dish dairy-free while retaining the creamy texture.
- → What nuts work well as a substitute for almonds?
Pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds can be used for a different crunch or to accommodate allergies and personal preference.