How to Make Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples
Looking for a refreshing and flavorful salad? Try an apple salad with Honeycrisp apples. Known for their crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor, Honeycrisp apples add a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness to the dish. This simple recipe is filled with nutritious ingredients that make it a great meal or side dish.
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Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or a spring mix)
- ½ cup toasted walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Apples: Core the Honeycrisp apples and slice them thinly. To prevent browning, toss the slices in a little lemon juice.
Toast the Nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts or pecans for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let them cool.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced apples, toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and red onion.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the salad.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad right before serving. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Tips for the Best Apple Salad:
Prevent Apple Browning: Toss the apple slices in lemon juice or soak them in a water-lemon juice mixture to keep them fresh.Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a hard-boiled egg.
Adjust the Dressing: Add more honey for sweetness or more apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
Toast the Nuts: Toasting enhances the flavor and adds crunch. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Try Different Cheese: Experiment with blue cheese or sharp cheddar for a new twist.
Make it Ahead: Prep the ingredients in advance, but keep the dressing separate until serving.
Add More Fruit: For extra sweetness, add pear slices, pomegranate seeds, or grapes.
Health Benefits:
This apple salad is packed with nutrients:
Honeycrisp Apples: High in fiber and vitamin C, great for digestion and immune support.Greens: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus antioxidants.
Nuts: Full of healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium.
Dried Cranberries: A touch of sweetness and a boost of antioxidants.