Why This Recipe Matters
The first time I made this Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad, I remember the crisp snap of fresh broccoli mixing with the sweetness of a perfectly ripe Honeycrisp apple. It wasn’t just food—it was comfort, health, and a burst of joy on the table. This recipe matters because it turns simple ingredients into a vibrant dish that brings together family, friends, or anyone looking for a wholesome, satisfying meal. It’s the kind of salad that makes you feel good before the first bite even hits your fork, and it’s especially perfect for those who want a fresh, crunchy, and nutritious side that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. Sweet Honeycrisp apples, crisp broccoli, cranberries, and sunflower seeds are tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, potlucks, or holiday tables, this salad is nutritious, colorful, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small (blanched 1 min, optional
1 large Honeycrisp apple, diced (leave peel on)
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup dried cranberries
⅓ cup sunflower seeds
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) Dressing:
½ cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized florets. Blanch for 1 minute if desired, then cool.
Dice Honeycrisp apple into small cubes.
Thinly slice red onion and measure cranberries and sunflower seeds.
In a small bowl, whisk yogurt, mayo, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper into a smooth dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli, apple, onion, cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Pour dressing on top and mix well.
Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes before serving. Top with shredded cheddar just before serving.
Notes
- To prevent apples from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice before mixing.
- For a vegan version, replace yogurt and mayo with cashew cream and honey with maple syrup.
- Best eaten fresh but stays crunchy for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook (optional blanch)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 220 kcl
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7 g
Keywords: Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad, apple broccoli salad, healthy broccoli salad, broccoli salad recipe, crunchy apple salad, Tasty Recipes
What Is Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad?
Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a refreshing, crunchy salad made with raw or lightly blanched broccoli florets, sweet Honeycrisp apples, nuts or seeds for crunch, dried fruit for balance, and a creamy yet tangy dressing. Unlike leafy green salads that wilt quickly, this broccoli-based salad holds up beautifully for hours, making it ideal for meal prep, picnics, and potlucks. The key is the Honeycrisp apple: juicy, crisp, and sweet-tart, it’s the star ingredient that transforms broccoli from an everyday veggie into the centerpiece of something truly crave-worthy. If you love fresh fruit in salads, you might also enjoy our Apple Walnut Salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Great for busy families: easy to prep, stays crunchy in the fridge
- Perfect for gatherings: holds up well at potlucks, picnics, or BBQs
- Kid-friendly: even picky eaters love the sweet apple crunch
- Nutritious yet indulgent: packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats
- Versatile: can be made gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan with simple swaps
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Here’s a breakdown of the main ingredients, plus smart swaps if you’re out of something or want to adjust for dietary needs.
| Ingredient | Purpose | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli florets | Crunchy base packed with vitamins | Cauliflower florets, shredded Brussels sprouts |
| Honeycrisp apple | Sweet, crisp highlight | Fuji, Gala, Pink Lady apples |
| Red onion | Adds sharp flavor balance | Green onions, shallots, or omit for milder flavor |
| Dried cranberries | Tart sweetness and color | Raisins, chopped dried cherries, or dates |
| Sunflower seeds | Nutty crunch | Pumpkin seeds, slivered almonds, chopped pecans |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | Creamy richness | Feta, goat cheese, or omit for dairy-free |
| Greek yogurt | Creamy dressing base | Mayo, vegan mayo, or cashew cream |
| Apple cider vinegar | Tangy balance in dressing | Lemon juice, white wine vinegar |
| Honey | Natural sweetness in dressing | Maple syrup, agave, or omit |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a foolproof salad every time:
- Prep the broccoli (5 minutes): Wash and cut 4 cups of broccoli into small bite-sized florets. For extra tenderness, blanch in boiling water for 1 minute, then shock in ice water.
- Chop the apple (2 minutes): Dice 1 large Honeycrisp apple into small cubes. Leave the peel on for color and extra fiber.
- Prepare the mix-ins (3 minutes): Thinly slice ¼ red onion, measure ½ cup dried cranberries, and ⅓ cup sunflower seeds.
- Make the dressing (3 minutes): In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons mayo, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper until smooth.
- Combine (2 minutes): In a large bowl, toss broccoli, apple, onion, cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Pour dressing over the top and mix well to coat.
- 6. Chill & serve (15–30 minutes): Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Sprinkle shredded cheddar over just before serving. For another creamy, veggie-packed side dish, try our Creamy Broccoli Slaw.
Tips for Success
- Dice apples just before mixing to avoid browning. A splash of lemon juice helps, too.
- Don’t overdress—the broccoli soaks up flavor quickly, so start with half the dressing and add more as needed.
- For make-ahead meals, keep dressing separate and mix just before serving.
Variations to Try
- Vegan Version: Swap yogurt/mayo for cashew cream and honey for maple syrup.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken strips, chickpeas, or edamame.
- Autumn Twist: Add diced roasted sweet potato or butternut squash. For a heartier seasonal option, check out our Roasted Sweet Potato Salad.
- Holiday Special: Mix in pomegranate seeds for festive color and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled salmon or roasted chicken for a balanced dinner.
- Serve alongside sandwiches or wraps for a fresh, crunchy lunch.
- Add to a holiday spread as a lighter alternative to heavier sides. For a creamy, tangy option, see our Greek Yogurt Coleslaw.
Nutrition Information (per serving, approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugars: 15 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
Storage Instructions
This salad stores beautifully:
- Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Meal prep tip: Leave out the cheese and dressing until just before serving to maintain peak freshness.
- Not freezer-friendly: Fresh apples and broccoli lose their crunch when frozen.
FAQ
Q: Can I make Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad a day ahead?
A: Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling overnight, though add the apples just before serving for best crunch.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: It’s not recommended, as frozen broccoli releases too much water and won’t stay crisp.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely—just double-check your dried fruit and seeds for hidden gluten.
Final Thoughts
Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is the kind of recipe that proves salads can be more than leafy greens. It’s crunchy, colorful, tangy-sweet, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re making it for a weekday lunchbox, a holiday table, or a summer picnic, it brings a little brightness and joy to every bite.
So grab a Honeycrisp apple, chop up that broccoli, and make this bowl of happiness today—you’ll be surprised how fast it disappears once you set it on the table.