Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Bliss Salad
This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch. It's a simple and versatile dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, offering a healthy dose of fruits and vegetables.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Colander
- Skillet or frying pan (for bacon)
- Spatula or tongs (for bacon)
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, washed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- 6 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled optional
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- Wash and prep the broccoli florets. Cut them into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Core the Honeycrisp apples and dice them into small, even pieces. Leave the skin on for added fiber and color if desired.
- Finely chop the red onion. To mellow the flavor, soak it in cold water for 10 minutes if desired.
- If using bacon, cook until crispy. Let it cool slightly, then crumble into small pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced Honeycrisp apples, chopped red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and crumbled bacon (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- For best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to soften slightly. However, it can also be served immediately.
Notes
For a dairy-free option, use vegan mayonnaise. To prevent browning, toss the diced apples with a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the broccoli and apples may soften slightly over time. Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal. To adjust the sweetness, modify the amount of honey in the dressing.