This refreshing apple salad combines crisp apples, sweet grapes, crunchy pecans, and tangy dried cranberries for a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal or a light lunch option.
The recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite nuts or fruits. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal produce and add a nutritious boost to your diet.
Ingredients That Shine
This apple salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients that come together to create a delightful dish.
Start with crisp apples, which provide a refreshing crunch.
Sweet, juicy grapes add a burst of flavor, while crunchy pecans introduce a satisfying texture.
Dried cranberries contribute a hint of sweetness, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in making this salad not just tasty but also visually appealing.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this salad is a breeze, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish.
Begin by mixing the dressing in a small bowl, combining Greek yogurt or mayonnaise with honey or maple syrup, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
This light dressing adds a creamy texture without overwhelming the fresh ingredients.
Next, in a larger bowl, combine the diced apples, halved grapes, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries.
Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful presentation, transfer the salad to a serving dish.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves to add a pop of color and a refreshing aroma.
This salad can be served immediately, or you can refrigerate it for up to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
It’s perfect as a side dish for any meal or as a light lunch option.
Nutrition Benefits
This apple salad not only tastes great but also offers several nutritional benefits.
Each serving contains approximately 180 calories, making it a light yet satisfying choice.
The combination of fruits and nuts provides essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
With 3 grams of protein and 8 grams of fat, it’s a balanced option that can help fuel your day.
Customizing Your Salad
One of the best aspects of this salad is its versatility.
You can easily customize it by swapping in your favorite nuts or adding other fruits like berries or oranges.
Feel free to adjust the dressing to suit your taste, perhaps using a different sweetener or adding spices for extra flavor.
This adaptability makes it a great dish for any season or occasion.
A Perfect Presentation
Serving this salad in a white bowl on a rustic wooden table creates an inviting atmosphere.
The contrast of the vibrant colors against the white dish enhances its visual appeal.
Whether for a casual family meal or a festive gathering, this salad is sure to impress.
Its fresh look and delightful taste will make it a favorite at your table.
Easy Apple Salad Recipe
This apple salad features a vibrant combination of fresh apples, juicy grapes, and crunchy pecans, all tossed together with dried cranberries for added sweetness. The salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 2 large apples, cored and diced
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the diced apples, halved grapes, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the fruit and nut mixture. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
