Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries
This crisp and creamy Apple Salad combines sweet Honeycrisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, toasted pecans, and chewy dried cranberries in a light, creamy dressing. It’s a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for holidays, family dinners, potlucks, picnics, or a quick lunch.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 3 Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
- 1½ cups seedless red or green grapes, halved
- 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions, optional
For the Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
1. Prepare the Apples
Wash and dry the Honeycrisp apples thoroughly.
Core the apples and cut them into bite-sized cubes.
You can leave the skin on for extra color and texture.
Place the diced apples in a large mixing bowl and immediately toss them with the lemon juice to help prevent browning.
2. Prepare the Remaining Ingredients
Wash and halve the grapes.
Thinly slice the celery.
Roughly chop the pecans.
Measure out the dried cranberries.
If desired, lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently. Allow them to cool before adding them to the salad.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Greek yogurt
- Honey
- Lemon juice
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
- Black pepper
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity if desired.
4. Combine the Salad
Add the grapes, celery, pecans, dried cranberries, and optional green onions to the bowl with the apples.
Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture.
5. Toss Gently
Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until the fruit and vegetables are evenly coated.
Be careful not to crush the grapes or apples.
6. Chill
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
This gives the flavors time to blend and makes the salad especially refreshing.
7. Serve
Give the salad a gentle stir before serving.
Sprinkle a few extra pecans and dried cranberries over the top for a beautiful finish.
Tips for the Best Apple Salad
Use crisp apples: Honeycrisp apples are ideal because they remain crunchy and provide a naturally sweet flavor.
Cut apples evenly: Bite-sized pieces make the salad easier to eat and ensure every serving has a little of everything.
Toast the pecans: Toasting brings out their natural flavor and adds extra crunch.
Don’t overdress: Start with most of the dressing and add more if needed. You want the fruit coated but not swimming in dressing.
Chill before serving: The salad tastes even better after resting in the refrigerator.
Easy Variations
Creamier Apple Salad
Add an extra ¼ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a richer, creamier dressing.
Waldorf-Style Apple Salad
Add ½ cup chopped walnuts and a handful of raisins.
Extra Crunchy Version
Add chopped almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds.
Tropical Apple Salad
Add ½ cup pineapple chunks or shredded coconut.
Chicken Apple Salad
Add 1–2 cups diced cooked chicken to turn it into a complete lunch.
Lighter Version
Replace the mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt and reduce the honey slightly.
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can prepare the dressing up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.
For the freshest texture, combine the salad ingredients and dressing a few hours before serving.
If preparing the entire salad ahead of time, refrigerate it in an airtight container.
Storage
Store leftover apple salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
The apples and celery may become slightly softer over time, so the salad is best enjoyed within the first day.
Give it a gentle stir before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes. Fuji, Gala, Pink Lady, or Granny Smith apples work well. For a sweeter salad, use Fuji or Gala. For a more tart flavor, use Granny Smith.
Can I make this without mayonnaise?
Absolutely. Use plain Greek yogurt instead, or combine Greek yogurt with a little sour cream for a creamy alternative.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes. Walnuts are an excellent substitute and provide a similar crunchy texture.
How do I keep the apples from turning brown?
Toss the diced apples with a little fresh lemon juice immediately after cutting them.
Recipe at a Glance
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Category: Salad / Side Dish
Cuisine: American
This Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries is crisp, creamy, sweet, and crunchy all at once. It’s an easy make-ahead side dish that adds a fresh burst of flavor to any meal.