Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crisp & Flavorful: A satisfying mix of crunchy broccoli, sweet Honeycrisp apples, and chewy dried fruit.
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Seasonal & Fresh: Showcases the bright, crisp flavors of Honeycrisp apples—ideal for autumn meals.
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Versatile: Enjoy as a side dish, light lunch, or even a festive holiday centerpiece.
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Nutritious & Wholesome: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats from nuts and seeds.
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Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and effortless assembly make it perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
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4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
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2 medium Honeycrisp apples, diced (skin on for extra color and nutrients)
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½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
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½ cup toasted almonds or pecans, roughly chopped
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2 tbsp sunflower seeds (optional, for extra crunch)
Optional Add-Ins:
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¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (for a hint of sharpness)
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a creamy, savory twist)
For the Dressing:
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½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
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2 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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½ tsp poppy seeds (optional, for a nutty flavor)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make It
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
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Wash and dry the broccoli, then chop into small florets. If desired, dice the stems for extra texture.
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Core and dice the apples. To prevent browning, toss them with a bit of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.
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Toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let them cool before chopping.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
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In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or vinegar as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, apples, dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and sunflower seeds.
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Add shredded cheddar or red onion, if using, for extra flavor and texture.
Step 4: Dress & Serve
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Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving or serve it on the side for guests to add as desired.
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Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Why This Recipe Works
✔ Perfect Flavor Balance: The sweetness of apples and cranberries pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing and toasted nuts.
✔ Satisfying Crunch: The mix of fresh vegetables, nuts, and seeds adds great texture.
✔ Easily Customizable: Swap ingredients or add proteins for variety.
Variations to Try
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Boost the Protein: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
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Cheese Swap: Try feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese instead of cheddar.
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Fruit Twist: Swap apples for pears or add pomegranate seeds for extra color and sweetness.
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Vegan Version: Use plant-based mayo and substitute maple syrup for honey.
Pro Tips for Success
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Keep Apples Fresh: Toss them with lemon juice or vinegar to prevent browning.
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Toast the Nuts: Enhances their flavor and adds a richer crunch.
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Dress Before Serving: Keeps the broccoli crisp and the apples juicy.
Serving Ideas
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Elegant Touch: Garnish with pomegranate seeds or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.
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Brunch Staple: Serve alongside quiches, muffins, or warm scones.
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Holiday Favorite: A perfect addition to Thanksgiving or festive spreads.
Final Thoughts
This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a celebration of fall flavors—crisp, vibrant, and packed with texture. Whether you serve it as a refreshing side, a light meal, or a show-stopping holiday dish, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Have you tried making a seasonal salad before? Share your favorite combos below! 🍏🥦✨