Apple Salad – Sweet, Crunchy & Creamy Delight

This Apple Salad is a refreshing blend of sweet, crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy nuts, and a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or everyday meals, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite fruits, nuts, or toppings. Light, flavorful, and visually appealing, this salad will become a staple in your recipe collection.

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Why You’ll Love This Apple Salad

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes.
• Balanced Flavors: Sweet, tart, and creamy all in one bite.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats from nuts.
• Customizable: Add cheese, coconut, or cinnamon for new flavor twists.

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Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), diced
• 1 cup red grapes, halved
• ½ cup chopped celery (optional, for extra crunch)
• ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
• ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (prevents browning and adds brightness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup crumbled blue cheese or feta
• ¼ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened or toasted)
• A sprinkle of cinnamon

Pro Tip: Toss apples in lemon juice immediately after cutting to keep them from browning.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples

• Wash, core, and dice apples into bite-sized pieces.
• Place in a large mixing bowl and toss with 1 tbsp lemon juice.

2. Assemble the Salad

• Add grapes, celery (if using), toasted nuts, and dried cranberries to the bowl.
• Mix gently to combine without bruising the fruit.

3. Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, remaining lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.

4. Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with optional add-ins like crumbled cheese, shredded coconut, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes for an extra refreshing taste.

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Pro Tips for Success

• Fruit Selection: Mix tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor.
• Nutty Flavor: Toast nuts lightly to enhance crunch and aroma.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the salad without dressing up to 4 hours in advance; add dressing just before serving.
• Texture Variation: Add pomegranate seeds or orange segments for a juicy twist.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo and use maple syrup instead of honey.

2. How long does the salad stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it lasts 2–3 days. Apples may brown slightly; extra lemon juice can help prevent this.

3. Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Pears, kiwi, or berries pair wonderfully with apples.

4. Can this salad be used as a dessert?
Yes! Add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to turn it into a sweet treat.

5. How do I prevent apples from turning brown?
Toss freshly cut apples with lemon juice or pineapple juice immediately after cutting.

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Conclusion

This Apple Salad is a versatile, refreshing, and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. From casual family meals to festive gatherings, it combines crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy nuts, and a creamy dressing to delight every palate. Easy to make, highly customizable, and packed with nutrients, this salad is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe for healthy and delicious snacking!