This Apple Salad is my go-to recipe whenever I want something fresh, crunchy, and a little bit creamy. Bursting with sweet apples, juicy grapes, and crunchy nuts, all tossed in a tangy yogurt dressing, this dish is as vibrant as it is delicious. It’s the kind of salad that brightens up any table, whether you’re serving it for a quick weekday lunch, a picnic, or as a colorful holiday side. If you love lively flavors and crave a salad that’s both wholesome and satisfying, you’ll adore this Apple Salad.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Apple Salad pulls its weight, adding color, crunch, or creaminess to the mix. With just a handful of simple items, you’ll create a salad that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- 2 large apples (cored and chopped, skin on): Apples are the star of the show, lending sweetness, tartness, and irresistible crunch.
- 1 cup red grapes (halved): Grapes add juicy bursts of sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
- 1/2 cup chopped celery: Celery brings a refreshing, crisp bite that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted if desired): Nuts give the salad a rich crunch and a toasty, earthy note.
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise: This creamy base ties everything together and keeps the salad light but luscious.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness that enhances the fruit flavors.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: The citrusy zing keeps the apples from browning and brightens the overall flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Just a tiny bit boosts all the other flavors and brings balance to the salad.
How to Make Apple Salad
Step 1: Prep Your Produce
Start by washing and drying your apples, grapes, and celery. Core and chop the apples (leave the skin on for extra fiber and gorgeous color), halve the grapes, and chop up the celery. If you’re using nuts, give them a rough chop as well, and toast them for a few minutes in a dry skillet if you want an even deeper flavor.
Step 2: Mix the Fruit and Veggies
In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, halved grapes, celery, and nuts. Give everything a gentle toss to distribute the ingredients evenly. This colorful medley is already inviting, but we’re about to make it irresistible with the dressing.
Step 3: Whisk the Creamy Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined. This luscious dressing is what takes the Apple Salad from good to unforgettable.
Step 4: Toss and Chill
Pour the creamy dressing over your apple mixture. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss until every bite is coated in that tangy-sweet goodness. Cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. This quick chill helps the flavors mingle and makes the salad extra refreshing.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, give the Apple Salad a final toss and taste for seasoning—you might want an extra squeeze of lemon or pinch of salt. Serve cold and watch it disappear!
How to Serve Apple Salad
Garnishes
For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle the top of your Apple Salad with a few extra toasted nuts or a handful of dried cranberries. A light dusting of chopped fresh parsley or mint adds an elegant, aromatic note as well. These little extras make each serving feel special and elevate the whole experience.
Side Dishes
This Apple Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roast turkey, or a savory sandwich. It’s also a fantastic addition to a holiday spread alongside classic sides like stuffing or roasted vegetables. The sweet, crisp flavors provide a refreshing counterpoint to richer main dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, try serving the Apple Salad in individual lettuce cups, hollowed-out apple halves, or small mason jars for a fun, portable presentation. For a picnic or potluck, layer it in a trifle bowl to show off all the colors and textures. However you serve it, this salad is guaranteed to catch everyone’s eye.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Apple Salad, simply cover the bowl tightly or transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and crisp for up to two days, though the apples might soften slightly over time. A quick stir before serving brings it right back to life.
Freezing
Freezing Apple Salad isn’t recommended, as the fresh fruit and creamy dressing don’t hold up well to the freezing and thawing process. The apples and grapes can become mushy, and the dressing may separate. For best results, enjoy your salad fresh or chilled from the fridge.
Reheating
This dish is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. If you’ve made it ahead, just give it a quick stir and serve straight from the refrigerator. If the salad has released a bit of liquid, drain off any excess before serving to keep it crisp and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in this Apple Salad?
Absolutely! Mixing red and green apples adds both color and a wonderful balance of sweet and tart flavors. Try varieties like Fuji, Gala, Granny Smith, or Honeycrisp for different taste experiences.
What’s the best way to keep the apples from browning?
The lemon juice in the dressing works wonders to prevent browning. If you’re prepping the apples ahead of time, toss them with a little extra lemon juice right after chopping for extra protection.
Can I make Apple Salad dairy-free?
Yes! Simply swap the Greek yogurt for your favorite dairy-free yogurt or use vegan mayonnaise. The salad will still be creamy and delicious, perfect for anyone avoiding dairy.
What other mix-ins can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Try adding dried cranberries, raisins, chopped pears, or even a handful of pomegranate seeds for extra sweetness and texture. Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint are also fantastic additions.
Is this Apple Salad gluten-free?
Yes, as written, the salad is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your yogurt or mayonnaise label if you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease or a severe sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Apple Salad is a classic: it’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a light lunch or a festive gathering, it brings a burst of freshness to any table. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Apple Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and creamy apple salad combining crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted nuts, all tossed in a honey-sweetened Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect as a light snack or a festive side dish, this salad offers a delightful balance of sweetness, texture, and tang, suitable for vegetarians and gluten-free diets.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 large apples (cored and chopped, skin on)
- 1 cup red grapes (halved)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted if desired)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit and Nuts: In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, halved grapes, chopped celery, and toasted nuts. Ensure ingredients are evenly distributed for balanced flavor.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey or maple syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the apple and grape mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve the apple salad cold for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use a mix of red and green apples to add color contrast and a tartness balance.
- For extra sweetness, consider adding raisins or dried cranberries.
- This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a holiday side dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
