Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries

Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries is like a party in a bowl—refreshing, crunchy, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s the salad that tricks you into eating something light while still feeling completely satisfied. Honeycrisp apples are the star here (because, let’s be real, they’re the Beyoncé of the apple world), and they pair beautifully with juicy grapes, crunchy celery, toasty pecans, and tart little pops of dried cranberries.

This is one of those salads that checks all the boxes: weeknight-friendly, potluck-ready, and even holiday-table worthy. It’s quick to whip up but has that polished “I actually tried” look when you bring it to the table. Whether you’re planning a light lunch, a side for roast chicken, or a fresh dish for Thanksgiving, this Apple Salad is a go-to that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples

• Perfect balance of sweet, tart, and savory.
• Crisp textures keep every bite refreshing.
• No heavy dressing—just a creamy yogurt-mayo mix.
• Stores well for meal prep.
• Works as a side dish or light main course.

Ingredients

• 2 large Honeycrisp apples, diced
• 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
• 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
• ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Dice the Honeycrisp apples and toss them with lemon juice if using.
2. Thinly slice celery and halve grapes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine apples, celery, grapes, pecans, and cranberries.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt and mayonnaise.
5. Pour dressing over salad ingredients and toss gently to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Melania’s Tips for Perfect Apple Salad

• Use Honeycrisp apples for that unbeatable crunch and sweetness.
• Toast pecans lightly for extra depth of flavor.
• Add lemon juice right after chopping apples to keep them pretty and bright.
• Chill before serving—this salad tastes better cold!

Bake It With the Littles (Well… Toss It)

No oven required, which makes this a perfect kid-helper recipe:

• Little hands can wash grapes and apples.
• Kids can whisk the yogurt and mayo (expect some finger-licking).
• Let them sprinkle cranberries on top as the “final touch.”

Meal-Prep Magic

• Make ahead: Prep and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Pro tip: keep apples separate if storing longer than a day, and toss in fresh before serving.

Healthier Swaps Without Losing the Magic

• Use all Greek yogurt, skip the mayo, for a tangier dressing.
• Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds.
• Add shredded carrots or kale for more veggie power.

Leftover Remix

If you’ve got leftovers:

• Spoon over baby spinach for a hearty salad.
• Wrap in a whole-wheat tortilla for a crunchy lunch wrap.
• Serve as a side with grilled chicken or salmon.

Gift It Like a Pro

Pack in a glass container with a wooden salad spoon tied on top. A festive ribbon plus a handwritten tag—“Fresh from my kitchen to yours”—turns this into a thoughtful hostess or holiday gift.

FAQs

Can I use another apple variety?
Yes! Fuji or Gala work well, but Honeycrisp really shines.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free yogurt or substitute with a light vinaigrette.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely—they’re equally delicious.

How long does Apple Salad last?
Best eaten within 2 days, but you can prep components ahead.

Final Thought

Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries is proof that healthy can also taste indulgent. It’s crunchy, creamy, colorful, and versatile enough for everything from lunchboxes to holiday feasts. With minimal effort, you get a salad that looks gorgeous and tastes even better.

If this salad speaks your language, you might also love my Autumn Harvest Quinoa Salad or refresh your table with a Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts

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