🥗 Ingredients:
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2 large Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
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1 cup red or green grapes, halved
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1 cup celery, thinly sliced
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½ cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
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⅓ cup dried cranberries
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½ cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a richer version)
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1 tbsp honey
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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Salt and black pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions:
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Prepare the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. -
Assemble the salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine diced apples, grapes, celery, pecans, and cranberries. -
Toss and coat:
Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated. -
Chill & serve:
Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes before serving for best flavor and crunch. -
Garnish (optional):
Sprinkle extra pecans or cranberries on top for presentation.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
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Serve chilled as a side dish with grilled chicken or turkey.
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Perfect for holiday dinners, picnics, or potlucks.
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Can also be served in lettuce cups for a light lunch.
💡 Tips:
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To keep apples from browning, toss them in lemon juice right after dicing.
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You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds.
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For a vegan version, use dairy-free yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey.
❓ Q&A
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make it up to a day ahead, but store the dressing separately and mix just before serving to keep the apples crunchy.
Q2: What other apples can I use besides Honeycrisp?
A: You can use Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples — all have a similar crisp sweetness.
Q3: Can I use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt?
A: Absolutely! Mayo gives a richer, creamier texture, while Greek yogurt adds a tangy, lighter taste.
Q4: How do I toast pecans perfectly?
A: Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and golden.
Q5: Is this salad healthy?
A: Yes — it’s full of fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Using Greek yogurt instead of mayo makes it even lighter.