If you are searching for a refreshing and delightful dish that hits all the right notes of sweet, tangy, and crunchy, you have to try this Apple Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Grapes Recipe. It’s a vibrant medley of juicy Honeycrisp apples, tart dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and luscious grapes, all enveloped in a creamy, slightly sweet dressing. Every bite offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors that makes this salad a perfect side or even a light meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a potluck, or just to brighten up your weekday meals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite quick fix in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is key to the success of this Apple Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Grapes Recipe. Each component is chosen not just for its flavor but also to provide a satisfying mix of textures and vibrant colors that you can almost taste before you even start mixing.
- 4 large Honeycrisp apples cubed: Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor that holds up well without turning mushy.
- 1 lemon juiced: Lemon juice prevents the apples from browning and adds a bright, tangy kick that balances the sweetness.
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise: This lends the salad a creamy, smooth dressing that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
- 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar: Brown sugar brings a gentle warmth and sweetness to complement the tartness of the fruits.
- 2 ribs celery, thinly sliced: Celery adds a satisfying crunch and a fresh, green note to the salad.
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved: Grapes offer juicy bursts of flavor and a lovely pop of color.
- ½ cup chopped pecans: Pecans contribute a buttery crunch and nutty richness that elevate the salad.
- ½ cup dried cranberries: These dried gems add a chewy texture and a tangy sweetness that is simply irresistible.
How to Make Apple Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Grapes Recipe
Step 1: Toss Apples with Lemon Juice
Start by cubing your fresh Honeycrisp apples, and then gently toss the pieces in freshly squeezed lemon juice. This simple step is crucial because it prevents the apples from browning and keeps their vibrant color intact, which is not only beautiful to look at but also essential for a fresh flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing and Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and brown sugar until they form a smooth, creamy dressing with just the right hint of sweetness. Then add the lemon-coated apples, thinly sliced celery, halved grapes, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries to the bowl. Stir everything until every piece is lightly coated with the luscious dressing, ensuring an even distribution of taste and texture in every forkful.
Step 3: Chill Before Serving
Once mixed, cover the salad with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows all those flavors to marry beautifully, and the salad to chill perfectly refreshing, making each bite thoroughly enjoyable.
How to Serve Apple Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Grapes Recipe
Garnishes
For a little added flair and texture, sprinkle some extra chopped pecans or a few dried cranberries on top right before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, a few fresh mint leaves can lend an inviting aroma and a pop of green that complements the colors in the salad beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with protein-based dishes such as grilled chicken or turkey, making it a great addition to lunch or dinner. It’s also fantastic alongside a cheese platter or crusty bread to create a well-rounded, light meal that’s perfect for warm weather or holiday feasts.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in a clear glass bowl so the vibrant colors shine through and entice your guests. Alternatively, spoon it into hollowed-out apples or small individual cups for a charming presentation that’s fun at parties and gatherings. This Apple Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Grapes Recipe lends itself beautifully to creative serving ideas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover apple salad should be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator. Because the apples are coated in lemon juice and the salad is chilled from the start, it holds up well for up to 2 days. Beyond that, the apples may start to soften too much, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh.
Freezing
Freezing this particular salad is not recommended as the texture of fresh apples, celery, grapes, and pecans will change drastically once thawed, resulting in a soggy and less pleasant experience.
Reheating
Since this salad is designed to be enjoyed cold, reheating is not necessary or advised. Keep it chilled and fresh straight out of your refrigerator for the best flavor and crunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this salad?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples are ideal because of their balance of sweetness and crispness, you can substitute with Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for a milder sweetness. Just choose firm apples that won’t turn mushy quickly.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to mayonnaise in this recipe?
Yes, you can use a dairy-free mayonnaise or even Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter option. Both will give the salad that creamy texture without compromising flavor.
Can I add other nuts besides pecans?
Definitely! Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives that will add a similar crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting the nuts lightly will enhance their taste even more.
How long should I let the salad chill before serving?
At least 30 minutes of chilling allows the flavors to blend and the salad to become perfectly refreshing. If you want, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it chilled until ready to serve.
Can this Apple Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Grapes Recipe be made vegan?
Yes! Use vegan mayonnaise and substitute the brown sugar with a vegan-certified brand to make the salad fully vegan while maintaining the delicious flavor and creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Grapes Recipe is one of those delightful dishes you’ll want to keep on your recipe list for whenever you need an easy, flavorful, and visually appealing salad. With fresh, wholesome ingredients and a perfect balance of taste and texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to make and remarkable to enjoy. Trust me, once you try it, this salad will become your go-to side dish for many meals to come!
Print
Apple Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Grapes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A refreshing and sweet Apple Salad featuring crisp Honeycrisp apples, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, pecans, and dried cranberries, all tossed in a creamy mayonnaise and brown sugar dressing. Perfect as a light snack or a side dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 large Honeycrisp apples, cubed
- 1 lemon, juiced
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 ribs celery, thinly sliced
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Toss the cubed Honeycrisp apples with the freshly squeezed lemon juice to prevent browning and add a bright citrus note.
- Make the Dressing and Combine: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and brown sugar until smooth. Add the lemon-coated apples, thinly sliced celery, halved grapes, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries. Stir gently to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill nicely.
Notes
- Use Honeycrisp apples for their sweetness and crisp texture, but Granny Smith can be substituted for a tart flavor.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavors and improves texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Toast the pecans lightly to add extra crunch and depth, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
