Description
A refreshing and nutritious Apple Salad combining sweet and tart apples, juicy grapes, crunchy toasted pecans, and tangy dried cranberries, all tossed in a creamy honey-yogurt dressing with a hint of cinnamon. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or healthy snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit
- 4 medium-sized apples, cored and chopped (use a mix of Fuji and Granny Smith)
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved (red, green, or mixed)
Nuts and Dried Fruit
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped and toasted
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Dressing
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Core and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. Leaving the skin on is optional and adds extra texture and nutrients.
- Prepare the Grapes: Wash the grapes thoroughly and slice them in half. Combine the chopped apples and halved grapes in a large mixing bowl.
- Toast the Pecans: In a small pan over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for about 5 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Combine Fruit and Nuts: Add the toasted pecans and dried cranberries to the bowl with apples and grapes.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon (if using) until smooth and creamy.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the fruit and pecan mixture. Gently toss to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing.
- Season to Taste: Adjust salt and pepper as needed. You may also add more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tanginess based on your preference.
- Chill: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the salad cold or at room temperature, optionally garnished with additional pecans or dried cranberries for extra crunch and color.
Notes
- Leaving apple skins on adds extra fiber and nutrients.
- Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Adjust the amount of honey and vinegar in the dressing to your taste preferences.
- Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
- This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 1 day but is best consumed fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple salad, grape salad, pecan salad, dried cranberries, healthy salad, fruit salad, yogurt dressing, easy salad recipe
