Homemade Apple Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love making this Homemade Apple Salad because it’s fresh, crunchy, and bursting with a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. The crisp apples pair beautifully with creamy dressing, crunchy nuts, and a handful of optional add-ins like cheese or dried fruits. It’s easy to throw together in minutes and works great as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as a potluck favorite. I can switch up the ingredients depending on what’s in my kitchen, making this salad both flexible and delicious every time.

Ingredients

• 2 large apples (Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness, or a mix), diced or thinly sliced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)

• 1/2 cup celery, finely sliced

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted for more flavor)

• 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)

• Fresh lettuce or mixed greens (optional, for serving)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt or mayonnaise (or a mix)

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

• Salt and black pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prep the Ingredients:

1. Chop the Apples: Dice or thinly slice the apples and toss them with lemon juice in a large bowl to prevent browning.

2. Prepare the Rest: Add the celery, onion (if using), nuts, dried fruit, and cheese to the apples. Mix gently.

Make the Dressing:

3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt or mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

4. Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.

Serve:

5. Serve Fresh: Serve immediately on its own or over a bed of lettuce or greens. If you’re preparing ahead of time, wait to add the dressing until just before serving for best texture.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4. Prep time is about 15 minutes. No cooking required, so it’s ready in under 20 minutes total.

Variations

If I want a more savory twist, I sometimes add chopped cooked chicken or turkey. For extra crunch, I toss in sunflower seeds or chopped almonds. You can also use pears instead of apples or add orange segments for more brightness. Blue cheese also makes a bold substitution for feta.

Storage/Reheating

Store the undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If already dressed, it’s best enjoyed the same day as the apples can soften. To freshen it up, add a splash of lemon juice or a few fresh greens before serving again.

FAQs

What apples are best for salad?

I like using a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Granny Smith for a balance of flavor and texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Just keep the dressing separate and toss it in right before serving to keep the apples crisp.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely—use plant-based yogurt or vegan mayo and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How do I keep the apples from turning brown?

Toss them in lemon juice right after slicing to keep them fresh and bright.

Can I use other dressings?

Yes! A simple vinaigrette, poppy seed dressing, or balsamic glaze all work beautifully with apples.

Conclusion

Homemade Apple Salad is a fresh, crunchy, and flavorful dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. With juicy apples, crisp veggies, and a tangy-sweet dressing, it’s perfect for any season and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I serve it as a light lunch or a colorful side dish, it adds a refreshing touch to any meal.

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