Apple Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Salad is not only easy to make but incredibly versatile. The combination of crisp apples with a creamy dressing is always refreshing, and it can be customized with your favorite mix-ins such as nuts, marshmallows, or dried fruit. The creaminess of the dressing contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the apples, and a touch of sweetness makes it a hit for both kids and adults. It’s a great make-ahead dish that can be prepared in minutes and stored in the refrigerator for hours or even days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 medium apples (any variety, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)

• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or use Greek yogurt for extra creaminess)

• 1/2 cup whipped topping (or more yogurt for a lighter option)

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning)

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)

Directions

1. Prepare the apples: Wash and core the apples, then cut them into small cubes or bite-sized pieces. To prevent the apples from browning, toss them with the lemon juice immediately after cutting.

2. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, nuts, and raisins (or dried cranberries). Stir to combine.

3. Make the dressing: In a separate small bowl, mix together the yogurt and whipped topping (or just yogurt for a lighter version). Add the honey or maple syrup, if desired, to sweeten the dressing. For a hint of spice, you can also stir in the ground cinnamon.

4. Combine everything: Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss gently to coat the apples evenly with the creamy dressing.

5. Chill: Cover the apple salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can also prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it for several hours or overnight.

6. Serve: Give the salad a quick toss before serving. Enjoy this sweet and creamy apple salad as a refreshing side or dessert!

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, and chilling time is about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare in advance.

Variations

• Add marshmallows: For a sweeter, more indulgent version, add mini marshmallows to the salad for extra sweetness and texture.

• Crispy topping: Top the salad with a sprinkle of granola or crushed graham crackers for an added crunch.

• Use a different fruit: For a more colorful salad, mix in other fruits like grapes, pineapple, or berries. You can even add orange segments for a citrusy touch.

• Make it dairy-free: Use coconut yogurt or a dairy-free whipped topping to make the salad vegan-friendly.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover Apple Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it will stay good for a couple of days. Keep in mind that the apples may soften slightly over time. If the salad starts to separate, simply give it a gentle stir before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of apples for this salad?

Yes, you can use any variety of apple that you prefer. Crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet apples like Honeycrisp both work well in this salad.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is great for make-ahead preparations. Just be sure to toss the apples with lemon juice to keep them from browning, and store the salad in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

3. Can I add yogurt instead of whipped topping?

Yes, you can use just yogurt for a lighter version of the salad. If you want a creamier texture, add a bit more yogurt, or use Greek yogurt for added richness.

4. Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?

Yes, you can use fresh fruit such as grapes, berries, or pineapple in place of raisins or dried cranberries for a different flavor and texture.

5. Can I add protein to this salad?

For an extra protein boost, you can add chopped cooked chicken or a handful of sunflower seeds, chia seeds, or hemp seeds.

6. How can I make this salad sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter salad, add more honey or maple syrup to the dressing, or sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before serving.

7. Can I make this salad without nuts?

Yes, if you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version, simply leave out the nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.

8. Can I make this salad with a different dressing?

Yes, if you prefer a different dressing, you can swap out the yogurt and whipped topping for a sweetened cream cheese mixture, or use a vinaigrette for a tangy variation.

9. How do I keep the apples from turning brown?

The lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning, but if you plan to make the salad ahead of time, you can toss the apples in a bit of lemon juice right after cutting them.

10. Can I add other spices to the dressing?

Yes, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg, allspice, or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor in the dressing.

Conclusion

Apple Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crisp apples, creamy dressing, and mix of textures from the nuts and fruit, it’s a refreshing side dish or dessert that’s sure to be a hit. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and is highly customizable to your taste. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, potluck, or family dinner, this Apple Salad will quickly become a favorite!

Apple Salad

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• Author: Alice
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Snack, Side Dish
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Apple Salad is a delicious, refreshing dish that features crisp apples tossed in a creamy dressing. With the perfect blend of sweetness and tanginess, this easy-to-make salad is great as a side dish or dessert. It can be customized with various mix-ins like nuts, raisins, and other fruits for a delightful texture and flavor. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, and gatherings.

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Ingredients

• 4 medium apples (any variety, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)

• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or use Greek yogurt for extra creaminess)

• 1/2 cup whipped topping (or more yogurt for a lighter option)

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning)

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)

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Instructions

• Prepare the apples: Wash, core, and cut the apples into small cubes or bite-sized pieces. Toss immediately with lemon juice to prevent browning.

• Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, nuts, and raisins (or dried cranberries). Stir to mix.

• Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, mix together the yogurt and whipped topping (or use only yogurt for a lighter option). Add honey or maple syrup for sweetness, and ground cinnamon for flavor.

• Combine everything: Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss gently until everything is coated.

• Chill: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

• Serve: Give the salad a quick toss before serving and enjoy!

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Notes

Variations: Add mini marshmallows for extra sweetness, granola or crushed graham crackers for a crunchy topping, or other fruits like grapes or berries.Make it dairy-free: Use coconut yogurt or a dairy-free whipped topping.Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.