Name: Refreshing Delicious Apple Salad with Celery, Grapes & Crunchy Pecans
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Honeycrisp apples (Thinly sliced); 1 cup Red seedless grapes (Halved); 1 cup Celery (Sliced); 1/2 cup Pecans (Toasted); 1/2 cup Dried cranberries; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup Mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Honey (Maple syrup is a great vegan alternative); 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice; 1 pinch Salt (Adjust to taste); 1 pinch Pepper (Adjust to taste)

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As warm sunlight filters through my kitchen window, I find myself craving something light yet bursting with flavor—a dish that can instantly lift my spirits. Enter the Refreshing Delicious Apple Salad with Celery, Grapes, Pecans & Dried Cranberries. Picture this: crunchy Honeycrisp apples, each bite reminiscent of autumn’s sweet embrace, mingling harmoniously with juicy red grapes and the satisfying crunch of crisp celery. Topped with toasty pecans and tangy cranberries, this salad isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors.

Whether you’re looking for a quick, healthy lunch or a delightful side dish for an upcoming potluck, this salad adapts beautifully to any occasion. What makes it even more enticing is its versatility—feel free to swap in your favorite apple varieties or add a sprinkle of feta for a savory twist. So, let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite, even in the midst of winter!

Why You’ll Love This Refreshing Salad

Vibrant Flavors: Experience a delightful burst of summer freshness in every bite with crispy apples, juicy grapes, and tangy cranberries.
Customization Galore: Easily adapt this salad to your taste by swapping apple varieties or incorporating feta cheese for a savory twist.
Quick to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a healthy side dish or light lunch in no time.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks and gatherings, this salad always impresses and satisfies!
Nutritious Choice: At only 180 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free indulgence. If you’re looking for another delightful salad, try our Apple Arugula Salad as a delicious alternative!

Refreshing Delicious Apple Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Honeycrisp apples – Crunchy and slightly tart for a sweet yet balanced flavor; try Granny Smith for added tang.
• Red seedless grapes – Adds juicy sweetness; halved for ease of mixing and eating.
• Celery – Provides crisp texture and earthy flavor; fresh, crunchy stalks work best.
• Pecans – Toasted for nutty richness; walnuts or almonds can be delightful substitutes.
• Dried cranberries – Their sweet-tart flavor contrasts beautifully; consider raisins or chopped cherries for a twist.

For the Dressing
• Greek yogurt – Gives a creamy, tangy base for the dressing’s richness.
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess that balances the dressing’s tartness.
• Honey – A natural sweetener that enhances the dressing’s flavor; maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.
• Fresh lemon juice – Brightens the salad and prevents apples from browning.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for elevating flavors; adjust to personal taste.

How to Make Refreshing Delicious Apple Salad

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. The dressing should have a creamy consistency that lightly coats the back of a spoon.
Chop Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples, halved grapes, and sliced celery. This colorful array not only looks appealing but brings together a fantastic blend of textures and flavors.
Mix in Nuts and Cranberries: Gently fold in toasted pecans and dried cranberries. Their crunch and sweetness will add delightful bursts in every bite, making this salad even more irresistible.
Combine Salad and Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated. Each piece should sparkle with the creaminess of the dressing!
Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 15 to 20 minutes. Letting the salad sit allows the flavors to meld beautifully and enhances the overall taste.
Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss again. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish at your next gathering. Enjoy every mouthful of this delightful medley!

Optional: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra taste twist!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Refreshing Delicious Apple Salad with Celery, Grapes, Pecans & Dried Cranberries?

This delightful salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it perfect for light lunches or lively gatherings.

Grilled Chicken: The savory flavors and charred texture of grilled chicken complement the salad, adding heartiness to your meal.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty, fluffy side dish enhances the dish’s freshness while providing a wholesome, nutritious base.
Baguette with Herb Butter: Crispy baguette slices serve as a crunchy counterpart, pairing wonderfully with the creamy salad dressing.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc brightens the meal, enhancing the fruits’ vibrancy with a crisp touch.
Roasted Vegetables: Earthy roasted veggies bring depth and warmth to the table, creating a delightful contrast with the salad’s refreshing flavors.
Fruit Sorbet: For a light dessert, finish with fruit sorbet to continue the fruity theme and offer a sweet, icy finale.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses can bring a creamy pop that complements the salad without overwhelming it; try goat cheese or brie for a luxurious touch.
Lemonade: A refreshing glass of homemade lemonade adds a sweet and tangy balance, making a perfectly sunny pairing for this light dish.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, this parfait provides a creamy, fruity contrast, maintaining the health-conscious vibe of your meal.

Apple Salad Variations

Feel empowered to personalize this salad to your liking and discover delightful twists that will brighten every bite.

Crisp Apple Swap: Try Granny Smith apples instead of Honeycrisp for a tangy zing. This tartness beautifully complements the sweetness of the grapes.
Nutty Alternatives: Use walnuts or almonds in place of pecans for a different texture and flavor. They add their unique crunch and personality to every mouthful.
Cheesy Touch: Crumble feta cheese over the salad for a salty contrast. The creaminess of feta elevates the dish, making it rich and satisfying.
Fresh Herbal Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for added brightness. A sprinkle of herbs introduces a refreshing layer that’s sure to make the salad pop.
Seasonal Fruit Add-in: Mix in pomegranate seeds or diced oranges to amplify seasonal flavors. These fruits not only add vibrancy but also a juicy burst that complements the salad beautifully.
Spiced Up Heat: For a hint of heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños. Their spiciness adds an unexpected depth that makes your salad stand out.
Vegan Twist: Use a plant-based yogurt and replace honey with maple syrup for a completely vegan dressing. This ensures everyone can enjoy this nutritious dish without compromise.
Dried Fruit Variations: Substitute dried cranberries with raisins or apricots for a different sweetness. Each dried fruit offers a unique flavor that creates a delightful medley.

Make Ahead Options

These Refreshing Delicious Apple Salad with Celery, Grapes, Pecans & Dried Cranberries are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the apples, grapes, and celery up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to toss the apples with fresh lemon juice to prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the dressing and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix the salad ingredients, pour the dressing over, and fold in the toasted pecans and dried cranberries—which should be added just before serving to keep them crunchy. Enjoy a fresh and vibrant salad with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Refreshing Apple Salad

Choose the Right Apples: Opt for crisp varieties like Honeycrisp for the best texture. Avoid mealy apples that won’t hold up in the salad.
Keep It Fresh: To prevent apples from browning, toss them in lemon juice immediately after slicing. Freshness is key to a refreshing apple salad!
Add Crunch Wisely: Stir in toasted pecans right before serving to maintain their crunch. Adding them too early can lead to sogginess.
Mix and Chill: Allow your salad to chill for 15-20 minutes before serving; this enhances the flavors and makes for a more refreshing dish.
Customizable Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients according to taste preference. More honey for sweetness or extra lemon juice for brightness can elevate your refreshing apple salad!

Storage Tips for Refreshing Delicious Apple Salad

Fridge: Store the apple salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. However, be aware that the apples may brown over time.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in apples and celery when thawed.

Reheating: This refreshing apple salad is meant to be enjoyed cold. Always serve it straight from the fridge for a crisp, refreshing experience.

Ingredient Separation: If you plan to keep leftovers, consider storing the dressing separately until ready to serve. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy and preserves its vibrant flavors.

Refreshing Delicious Apple Salad with Celery, Grapes, Pecans & Dried Cranberries Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best apples for this salad?
Absolutely! For a crunchy texture and sweet-tart flavor, go for Honeycrisp apples. Another great choice is Granny Smith if you prefer a more tart bite. Look for apples that are firm, without any dark spots or bruises, ensuring you’re starting with the freshest ingredients.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of this apple salad?
I recommend storing your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the apples may turn slightly brown due to oxidation. To keep it fresh longer, you might want to store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving.

Can I freeze this apple salad?
It’s best not to freeze this salad. When thawed, the apples and celery tend to lose their crisp texture and become mushy. Instead, enjoy this refreshing apple salad cold and fresh right after you prepare it to savor all those delightful crunches.

What should I do if my salad turns out too sweet?
If your refreshing apple salad leans towards sweetness, try adding a pinch of salt or a splash of additional lemon juice to balance out the flavors. This can help restore harmony to your dish, giving it a more balanced taste.

Is this recipe safe for those with nut allergies?
Very! You can easily adapt this salad for nut-free diets. Just omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for that delightful crunch without the allergens. Always check ingredient labels if you have severe allergies!

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare your salad a few hours in advance—just be sure to toss the apples with lemon juice immediately after slicing to prevent browning. Cover it and let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. If possible, add the nuts just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.