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Crisp Honeycrisp apples meet earthy broccoli and tart cranberries in this colorful and crunchy salad that always draws compliments at potlucks. A creamy dressing clings to every bite and the toasted pecans add just the right touch of richness and texture. This is a staple for quick lunches and I crave it when apples are at their juiciest.
My first try was when I needed something bright for a late autumn dinner and everyone went back for seconds. Now my friends ask me to bring it each time there is a gathering.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets: bring crunch and absorb dressing choose deep green clusters that feel firm
- Honeycrisp apples: give juicy sweetness pick apples with taut skin and no blemishes
- Dried cranberries: for tart chewy contrast try to use unsweetened if possible for balance
- Pecans: add a buttery nutty crunch toast them lightly for the best aroma
- Greek yogurt: creates a creamy base use whole milk yogurt for the richest texture
- Honey: enhances sweetness without overpowering choose mild clover or wildflower
- Lemon juice: brightens every flavor use freshly squeezed for the purest taste
- Salt: lifts out the tangy notes without making it too savory use kosher if available
- Black pepper: gives gentle warmth always use freshly ground if you can
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Broccoli:
- Cut broccoli into small florets after thoroughly washing and drying. Aim for uniform pieces so the salad mixes evenly and is easy to eat.
- Slice the Apples:
- Core Honeycrisp apples and slice thinly. To prevent browning and keep slices crisp gently toss them with a little lemon juice right away.
- Toast the Pecans:
- Warm a dry skillet over medium heat. Spread chopped pecans out evenly and toast for three to four minutes shaking the pan occasionally. Remove when you smell a deep nutty aroma.
- Mix the Salad Base:
- In a large bowl gently combine broccoli florets apple slices dried cranberries and toasted pecans. Layer the ingredients if presentation matters.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a separate mixing bowl whisk Greek yogurt honey lemon juice salt and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust for sweetness or acidity as needed.
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour the creamy yogurt dressing over the salad ingredients. Use clean hands or a silicone spatula to gently toss until every piece gets a little dressing. Massage into the broccoli for maximum flavor absorption.
- Let It Rest:
- Allow the finished salad to rest for ten minutes at room temperature. This helps flavors meld and softens the broccoli just a bit for perfect texture.
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You Must Know
Honeycrisp apples are always my favorite for salads since their bright snap holds up in anything. One time we packed this salad for a fall picnic and my kids ate the broccoli first without even realizing it.
Storage Tips
This salad keeps well in the fridge for two days. Store it in a tightly sealed container. If making ahead leave out the pecans and add them just before serving for maximum crunch. The apples stay fresh because of the lemon juice in both the dressing and prep.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Honeycrisp apples try Fuji or Pink Lady for a similar sweet crunch. Toasted walnuts or sliced almonds can swap for pecans. For the dressing you can use plain non dairy yogurt if you want a vegan option just be sure to boost the honey or sweeten to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this salad with simple roasted chicken or a wedge of sharp cheddar for a full meal. It also makes a bright counterpoint to spicy barbecue and is easy to pack for lunch boxes. Try layering in jars for a grab and go meal.
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Cultural Notes
Broccoli salads with fruit and creamy dressings are a beloved tradition in American potlucks especially since the nineteen seventies. Honeycrisp apples are a newer favorite variety known for holding their crunch and sweetness which makes them perfect for this modern update.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the apples from browning?
Toss sliced apples with lemon juice immediately after cutting. The acid slows oxidation and helps preserve their color.
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
You can prep components and store separately. Combine with dressing and apples just before serving to maintain crispness.
- → Is blanching the broccoli necessary?
It’s optional. Blanching softens broccoli slightly; use raw florets for extra crunch or blanch for a milder bite.
- → What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
Sour cream or a plant-based yogurt works well if you prefer a different creamy base for the dressing.
- → How long will leftovers keep?
The salad stays fresh for up to two days in the refrigerator. Apples may soften, but flavors develop further.