Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad
Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish combining crisp broccoli florets, sweet and tart Honeycrisp apples, tangy mayonnaise-based dressing, and crunchy add-ins like bacon, cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds. Perfect as a side or light meal, this salad is easy to make and customizable for various dietary preferences.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Fresh Produce
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, firm and bright green
- 2 medium Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced with skin on
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup crunchy bacon bits
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or plant-based mayo for vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Prep the Broccoli and Apples: Wash and cut fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets to ensure even texture. Core and dice Honeycrisp apples into small chunks, keeping the skin on to preserve color and nutrients.
- Combine the Fresh Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the broccoli florets, diced apples, and thinly sliced red onion to evenly distribute flavors and textures.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add Bacon, Cheese, and Seeds: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds or nuts over the broccoli and apple mixture. Gently fold in the dressing to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and keep it nicely chilled before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp broccoli and Honeycrisp apples for the best flavor and texture.
- Add dressing gradually to avoid overpowering the salad and keep it light and refreshing.
- Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavor blending and maintain crispness.
- Lightly toast sunflower seeds or nuts to intensify their crunch and nutty flavor.
- Cut ingredients uniformly for balanced bites and consistent texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad, broccoli salad, honeycrisp apple recipe, crunchy salad, side dish, potluck salad, gluten free salad