Name: Apple Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 3 large apples (cored and thinly sliced); 1/2 cup celery (chopped); 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced); 1/3 cup walnuts (toasted and chopped); 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Toss together my Apple Salad Recipe, a crisp and vibrant gem among Summer Recipes that shines on any warm day! This refreshing Summer Salad blends sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy yogurt dressing, perfect as a light side or healthy snack. With just 15 minutes of prep and no cooking, it’s an effortless way to add fresh flavor to your summer table.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Salad Recipe

I love this Apple Salad Recipe because it’s a standout in Summer Recipes, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors without any fuss. The juicy apples, nutty walnuts, and zesty Greek yogurt dressing create a balanced Summer Salad that’s both nourishing and delicious. Its quick prep and versatility make it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a refreshing snack, bringing a burst of summer to every bite.

Ingredients for Apple Salad Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Apple Salad Recipe (serves 4):

3 large apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and thinly sliced
½ cup celery, chopped
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
⅓ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
¼ cup dried cranberries
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
¼ tsp kosher salt
⅛ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Tips:

Apples: Honeycrisp or Fuji bring sweet-tart flavor to this Summer Salad; Granny Smith adds extra zing.
Walnuts: Toasting enhances their crunch; pecans or almonds are great alternatives.
Greek Yogurt: Full-fat yields a creamy dressing; opt for plant-based yogurt for vegan diets.
Lemon Juice: Keeps apples fresh and adds tang; use fresh for the best flavor.
Cranberries: Provide chewy sweetness; swap with raisins or chopped apricots if desired.

Directions for Apple Salad Recipe

Combine Ingredients

I core and thinly slice 3 large apples, chop ½ cup celery, dice ¼ cup red onion, toast and chop ⅓ cup walnuts, and add ¼ cup dried cranberries to a large bowl, creating the base for this Apple Salad Recipe.

Prepare Dressing

In a small bowl, I whisk ½ cup Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp lemon juice, ¼ tsp salt, and ⅛ tsp pepper until smooth and velvety.

Mix Salad

I drizzle the dressing over the apple mixture and toss gently to coat, ensuring every piece is enveloped in creamy, tangy flavor.

Chill and Garnish

I refrigerate the Apple Salad Recipe for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld, then sprinkle with 1 tbsp chopped parsley for a fresh pop, if using.

Serve

I serve this Summer Salad chilled, perfect alongside grilled dishes or as a light, refreshing snack for summer gatherings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 32g carbs, 6g protein, 9g fat, 5g fiber

Variations for Apple Salad Recipe

I love switching up this Apple Salad Recipe to keep it exciting. Here are some ideas:

Nut Twist: Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a unique crunch in this Summer Salad.
Vegan Option: Use coconut or almond yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey.
Extra Freshness: Add shredded carrots or chopped celery leaves for more color and vibrancy.
Sweeter Bite: Boost dried cranberries to ⅓ cup or toss in chopped dates for added sweetness.
Zesty Swap: Replace lemon juice with apple cider vinegar for a sharper, tangy kick.

Storage

I store this Apple Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain its crispness. The yogurt dressing helps prevent apple browning, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture. Freezing is not recommended, as it can make the apples and dressing soggy. For prepping ahead, I toss apples with lemon juice right away and store ingredients separately, combining just before serving.

FAQs About Apple Salad Recipe

What apples work best for Apple Salad Recipe?
I recommend Honeycrisp or Fuji for their sweet-tart balance in this Summer Salad, but Granny Smith offers a tart, crunchy twist.

How long does Apple Salad Recipe stay fresh?
It stays fresh for 1-2 days in an airtight container in the fridge, with the dressing helping to keep apples vibrant.

Can I prep Apple Salad Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, make it a few hours ahead and chill, ensuring apples are coated with lemon juice and dressing to avoid browning.

Can I use different nuts in this Summer Recipes dish?
Definitely, pecans, almonds, or cashews provide great flavor and texture alternatives.

How can I make Apple Salad Recipe vegan?
Use plant-based yogurt (like coconut or almond) and swap honey for maple syrup or agave.

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Conclusion

This Apple Salad Recipe is a fresh, healthy highlight among Summer Recipes, perfect for warm days or quick snacks. I love how its juicy apples, crunchy nuts, and creamy dressing come together in just 15 minutes, creating a versatile Summer Salad that’s as delicious as it is easy. Try this refreshing recipe, share your creations on social media, and explore more delicious ideas at Food and Tips. It’s sure to be a summer staple in your kitchen!