Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a vibrant, crunchy, and refreshing dish that brings together sweet apples, crisp broccoli, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures—sweet, savory, creamy, and fresh—all in one colorful bowl. Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or an easy make-ahead side, this salad is a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a beautiful mix of health and indulgence. The sweet, juicy crunch of Honeycrisp apples pairs perfectly with the hearty bite of broccoli. Tossed with creamy dressing and speckled with nuts and dried fruit, it’s balanced, satisfying, and full of flavor. It’s also quick to prepare, doesn’t get soggy, and tastes even better the next day—making it great for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Broccoli florets
• Honeycrisp apples
• Red onion
• Shredded carrots
• Sunflower seeds or chopped nuts
• Dried cranberries or raisins
• Mayonnaise
• Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Apple cider vinegar
• Honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Prep the Broccoli: Chop broccoli into small bite-sized florets. Blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds for a brighter color and slightly softer texture (optional). Drain and let cool.
2. Chop Ingredients: Dice the Honeycrisp apples, finely slice the red onion, and shred the carrots.
3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, toss the broccoli, apples, onions, carrots, cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
5. Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and mix until everything is evenly coated.
6. Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use plant-based mayo and yogurt, and swap honey for maple syrup.
• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or cooked quinoa for a more filling meal.
• Cheese Twist: Add crumbled feta or shredded cheddar for an extra savory note.
• Nut Options: Use chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts instead of sunflower seeds.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeño for heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing and chop all the veggies ahead of time. Mix everything together the day you plan to serve for peak freshness.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of apples and broccoli does not hold up well when frozen and thawed.

FAQs

What makes Honeycrisp apples a good choice for this salad?

Honeycrisp apples are extra sweet, crisp, and juicy, making them ideal for pairing with the earthy crunch of broccoli and creamy dressing.

Do I have to cook the broccoli?

No, the broccoli can be used raw. Blanching is optional and only slightly softens the texture while keeping the crunch.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours, as the flavors meld together. Just keep it refrigerated.

Will the apples turn brown?

Honeycrisp apples are slow to oxidize, but to prevent browning, toss the chopped apples in a little lemon juice before mixing.

Can I use another type of apple?

Yes, Fuji or Gala apples work well too, but Honeycrisp offers the best sweetness and crunch for this recipe.

How can I make this salad dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative or just stick with mayo as the base for the dressing.

What if I don’t have dried cranberries?

You can substitute raisins, chopped dates, or even dried cherries for a similar sweet touch.

Can I add bacon?

Absolutely! Crumbled bacon adds a salty, smoky contrast and works wonderfully in this salad.

What should I serve this with?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a refreshing side to heavier dishes like casseroles or roasts.

Is this salad kid-friendly?

Yes! The sweet apples and creamy dressing make it appealing to kids. You can reduce or omit the onions for picky eaters.

Conclusion

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a refreshing, colorful, and flavorful side dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. With crunchy veggies, sweet apples, and a tangy-sweet dressing, it’s perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to potluck gatherings. Easy to make, full of texture, and even better the next day, this salad will quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation.

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