Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

This crisp Honeycrisp apple broccoli salad has become a go-to whenever I want something that feels fresh satisfying and a little special but also lets vegetables truly shine. The sweet snap of Honeycrisp apples packs each bite with juicy brightness while earthy broccoli and toasted pecans add hearty crunch. As the salad rests in its creamy yogurt honey and lemon dressing each ingredient absorbs a little more flavor making leftovers irresistible. It is fast enough for busy weeknights but seems to impress whenever I take it to a neighborhood potluck.

I first tried this when I needed something bright for a late autumn dinner and everyone went back for seconds. Now friends request it whenever we gather and it always disappears quickly.

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

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

Honeycrisp apples are always my favorite for salads since their bright snap holds up in anything. Once we took this on a fall picnic and my kids actually ate all the broccoli before they noticed the apples were even there. This recipe makes veggie converts of everyone.

Storage Tips

This salad keeps fresh and crunchy for two days in the refrigerator if stored in a tightly sealed container. For meal prep or parties leave the pecans out and stir them in just before serving to maintain their crunch. The apples hold their texture thanks to the touch of lemon juice in both the salad and dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of Honeycrisp apples Fuji or Pink Lady varieties also work beautifully These choices keep their crispness and sweetness just as well. For the nutty crunch try toasted walnuts or sliced almonds instead of pecans. Plant based yogurt makes the dressing dairy free just increase the honey or sweeten to taste.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is fantastic as a light entree on its own or as a side for roasted chicken and grilled fish. Serve alongside smoky barbecue to balance bold flavors or tuck it into your lunch box for work. I love packing it into wide mouth jars for pretty single serve meals with all the layers visible.

Each time you make this salad you nourish yourself with crisp vegetables and fruit without it feeling like health food. It is simple honest and truly delicious—more than the sum of its parts and a joy to make year round.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ How do I prevent apples from browning?

Toss sliced apples with a bit of lemon juice immediately after cutting to help retain their crisp color and freshness.

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Prepare salad ingredients separately and combine with dressing and apples just before serving to maintain texture.

→ Is blanching broccoli necessary?

Not required—raw florets give extra crunch. Blanch briefly for a milder flavor and softer texture, if you prefer.

→ What alternatives work for Greek yogurt?

Plain or plant-based yogurt and sour cream can replace Greek yogurt as a base for the creamy dressing.

→ How long does this dish keep?

It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to two days. For peak crunch, store pecans separately and add before eating.