Drusilla A. Mccarley’s Honeycrisp Apple Salad

Ingredients:

2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and chopped

1 cup celery, diced

1 cup red grapes, halved

1/2 cup pecans, chopped

1/4 cup dried cranberries

For the dressing:

1/4 cup Greek yogurt

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped Honeycrisp apples, diced celery, halved red grapes, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon until smooth.

Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the apple mixture. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Chill

Place the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve

Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing mix of flavors and textures!

Variations:

Nut-Free Option

Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether for a nut-free version.

Dairy-Free Dressing

Swap Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or use a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of maple syrup.

Alternative Fruits

Substitute red grapes with green grapes, pomegranate arils, or chopped fresh pineapple for a different flavor profile.

Cheese Additions

Add crumbled feta, blue cheese, or shredded sharp cheddar for a savory twist.

Different Nuts

Use walnuts, almonds, or cashews instead of pecans for variety.

Extra Crunch

Add sliced radishes or shredded carrots for additional crunch and color.

Sweetener Swap

Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a slightly different sweetness.

Tips:

Prevent Browning

Toss the chopped apples in a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the salad to prevent browning.

Make-Ahead Option

Prepare the salad base and dressing separately. Combine just before serving to maintain crispness.

Serve as a Meal

Add grilled chicken, turkey, or tofu to turn the salad into a light, protein-packed meal.

Customize the Dressing

Adjust the amount of cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg for a warmer flavor profile.

Chilling Time

For the best flavor, allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes, but not more than 4 hours, to keep the textures fresh.

Enjoy experimenting with these variations to make the recipe your own!

Enjoy!