This Homemade Apple Salad is a refreshing, crisp, and colorful dish made with a mix of sweet and tart apples, crunchy celery, toasted nuts, and a tangy yogurt dressing. Perfect as a side, light lunch, or healthy potluck favorite, it comes together in just 15 minutes and is easy to customize to your taste.
2 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or both), diced or thinly sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ cup celery, finely sliced
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
⅓ cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (toasted for more flavor)
⅓ cup dried cranberries or raisins
½ 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
Prep the Apples:
Dice or slice apples and toss with lemon juice in a large mixing bowl to prevent browning.
Add Salad Ingredients:
Stir in celery, onion (if using), nuts, dried fruit, and cheese (if using).
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt or mayo, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey/maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Toss and Serve:
Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately, either on its own or over a bed of greens.
Toasting the nuts adds extra flavor and crunch.
For a heartier version, add diced cooked chicken or turkey.
Swap apples with pears or mix both for a different twist.
Keep apples from browning by prepping them with lemon juice right away.
Find it online: https://avarecipe.com/homemade-apple-salad/