If you love fresh, crisp, and slightly sweet salads, this Creamy Apple Salad is the perfect dish. Packed with crunchy apples, creamy dressing, and delicious mix-ins like nuts and raisins, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying.
I love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday side dish, picnic, or a quick weekday snack. The sweet apples paired with the creamy dressing create a perfect balance of flavors.
Let’s get into how to make this delicious and creamy apple salad at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crisp, creamy, and refreshing – A perfect mix of textures and flavors.
- Quick and easy to make – Ready in just 10 minutes.
- Great for any occasion – Perfect for BBQs, holidays, or meal prep.
- Customizable – Add your favorite nuts, fruits, or dressing variations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves: 4-6 | Prep Time: 10 minutes)
- 3 large apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala), diced
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ½ cup red or green grapes, halved
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Creamy Apple Salad
1. Prepare the Apples
- Wash, core, and dice the apples into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss with lemon juice to keep them from browning.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine apples, celery, grapes, walnuts, and raisins.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), honey, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3. Toss and Serve
- Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
My Best Tips for Perfect Apple Salad
- Use a mix of apples – Combining sweet and tart apples (like Fuji and Granny Smith) adds more depth.
- Make it ahead – Chill in the fridge for an hour to let flavors blend better.
- Add a crunch – Swap walnuts for almonds or sunflower seeds.
- Want extra sweetness? – Add mini marshmallows for a fun twist!
What to Serve with Creamy Apple Salad
This salad pairs perfectly with:
- Grilled chicken or turkey – A fresh, fruity contrast to savory dishes.
- BBQs or holiday meals – A light, refreshing side for rich foods.
- As a snack or light lunch – Serve on its own or over greens.
- With a sandwich – Great alongside a turkey or ham sandwich.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir before serving.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut yogurt or a light vinaigrette instead of mayo or Greek yogurt.
What other fruits can I add?
Try adding pears, pineapple, or pomegranate seeds for extra flavor.
This Creamy Apple Salad is fresh, sweet, crunchy, and irresistibly delicious, making it the perfect side dish or snack. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, meal prep, or a refreshing lunch, it’s always a hit.
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!
Creamy Apple Salad: A Sweet and Crunchy Side Dish for Any Occasion
Ingredients
- 2 large apples, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, chopped celery, halved grapes, chopped nuts, and raisins.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, and yogurt (or sour cream) until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
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