Description
A refreshing and crunchy Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad combining fresh broccoli florets, sweet and crisp Honeycrisp apples, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds, all tossed in a tangy honey-apple cider vinegar dressing. This colorful salad is perfect for a light lunch or a nutritious side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced (skin-on)
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup sunflower seeds
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Dressing Ingredients
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Rinse the fresh broccoli florets under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. Cut into bite-sized pieces if necessary.
- Chop Apples and Onion: Core and dice the Honeycrisp apples with skin on to retain texture and color. Thinly slice the red onion to add a sharp, tangy flavor.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli florets, diced apples, sliced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Toss gently to mix.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss again until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use Honeycrisp apples for their sweetness and crisp texture that complements the broccoli well.
- For added crunch, toast the sunflower seeds lightly before adding.
- Dressing can be adjusted for sweetness or acidity by varying honey or apple cider vinegar amounts.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and stored chilled in an airtight container.
- To keep apples from browning, toss them briefly in a small amount of lemon juice before adding to the salad.
