A crisp, refreshing, and colorful salad, Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors. With the juicy sweetness of Honeycrisp apples, the earthy crunch of broccoli, the chewiness of dried cranberries, and the nutty richness of pecans or walnuts, every bite is a harmonious explosion of texture and taste. The creamy, tangy dressing ties it all together, making it an irresistible side dish for fall gatherings, holiday tables, or simply a healthy, vibrant addition to your weekly meals.
History & Formation
Broccoli salads have long been a staple in American cuisine, especially in potlucks and family gatherings, where they gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. The combination of raw vegetables with sweet, creamy dressings was revolutionary at the time, offering a fresh, flavorful alternative to heavier cooked salads.
Adding Honeycrisp apples, a relatively recent apple variety introduced in the 1990s in Minnesota, elevates the salad with a uniquely crisp and sweet flavor, perfectly balancing the bitterness of raw broccoli. The nuts, cranberries, and optional cheese add depth and richness, creating a multi-textured salad loved by many generations.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 large Honeycrisp apple, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions & Methods
see continuation on next page
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