Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor, this Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is the perfect side dish for any season. It strikes a delightful balance between sweet and savory, combining crisp apples, crunchy broccoli, salty bacon, and chewy raisins, all tossed in a tangy yogurt-based dressing. This salad is not just delicious—it’s also nutrient-packed, making it a great addition to meals ranging from backyard barbecues to holiday spreads. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or bringing it to a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a standout on the table.

The Honeycrisp apple adds a burst of juicy sweetness that complements the earthy broccoli and the richness of sunflower seeds and bacon. The dressing ties everything together with a creamy tanginess, lightened up by using yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Not only is this salad easy to make ahead of time, but it also holds up well in the fridge, allowing the flavors to develop even more as it sits. If you’re looking for a dish that’s as nutritious as it is tasty, this broccoli salad is the one to try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Nutrient-Dense: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.
2. Sweet and Savory Flavor: Apples, raisins, and bacon make a perfect contrast.
3. No Cooking Required: Minimal prep and no stovetop or oven needed (aside from the bacon).
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: Gets better as it chills, making it ideal for prepping ahead.
5. Lightened-Up Dressing: Uses yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier twist.

Ingredients

Salad

• Honeycrisp apple (seeded and chopped)
• Broccoli florets
• Red onion (chopped)
• Raisins
• Sunflower seeds
• Bacon (cooked and crumbled)

Dressing

• Plain yogurt
• Milk
• Apple cider vinegar
• Sugar or honey
• Salt & pepper

Variations

• Vegan Version: Omit bacon, use plant-based yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey or sugar.
• Nutty Twist: Swap sunflower seeds with chopped almonds or walnuts.
• Add Cheese: Toss in crumbled feta or shredded cheddar for extra richness.
• Different Fruit: Try chopped pears or grapes instead of apples.
• Extra Veggies: Add shredded carrots or chopped celery for more crunch.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1:

Cook the bacon until crisp, then set it aside to cool before crumbling.

Step 2:

Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets and place in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3:

Add the chopped Honeycrisp apple, red onion, raisins, sunflower seeds, and crumbled bacon to the bowl.

Step 4:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, milk, apple cider vinegar, and sugar or honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5:

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6:

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use fresh, crisp apples to avoid sogginess.
• For milder onion flavor, soak chopped red onion in cold water for 5–10 minutes before adding.
• Make the salad a few hours ahead to let the flavors deepen.
• Adjust sweetness in the dressing based on your taste—start with less and add more if needed.
• Chop broccoli into small, uniform pieces for easier mixing and eating.

How to Serve

Serve chilled as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches. It’s also great with holiday meals or picnic fare. For a light lunch, enjoy it on its own or spooned over a bed of greens.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

This salad is not freezer-friendly due to the fresh ingredients and creamy dressing, which do not hold up well to freezing and thawing.

Reheating

Reheating is not needed—this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, Fuji or Gala apples are good alternatives if you don’t have Honeycrisp.

2. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on packaged items like bacon and yogurt to be sure.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and plant-based milk for the dressing.

4. What if I don’t like raisins?

You can substitute dried cranberries or chopped dates for a similar texture and sweetness.

5. How do I make the salad less sweet?

Reduce the amount of sugar or honey in the dressing, or skip the raisins.

6. Can I blanch the broccoli?

Yes, a quick blanch (30 seconds in boiling water, then ice bath) softens the texture without cooking it fully.

7. Can I make this a main dish?

Add grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas for a protein boost to turn it into a main course.

8. How long does it need to chill?

At least 30 minutes, but it’s even better after 2–4 hours in the fridge.

9. Can I omit the bacon?

Yes, it’s optional, and the salad is still flavorful without it.

10. Should I peel the apple?

Peeling is optional—leaving the skin on adds color, texture, and nutrients.

Conclusion

The Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that delivers on both flavor and nutrition. With a balance of textures, from crunchy broccoli to chewy raisins and crisp apple, and a tangy-sweet yogurt dressing that ties it all together, this salad is anything but boring. It’s easy to make, great for prepping ahead, and perfect for nearly any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome side dish or a refreshing lunch, this salad is a must-try that’s sure to become a favorite.

Print