Name: Quick & Delicious Apple Salad Recipe with Grapes, Pecans, and Cranberries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 medium apples, cored and cubed (use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Gala and Granny Smith); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1/2 cup celery, chopped; 1/2 cup red or green seedless grapes, halved; 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup dried cranberries

Introduction

Looking for a quick, easy, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion? This Quick & Delicious Apple Salad is exactly what you need. Ready in just under 10 minutes (plus a short chill time), this salad combines the crisp sweetness of apples, the juicy burst of grapes, the crunch of pecans, and the chewy texture of dried cranberries. Tossed in a light dressing made from mayonnaise and brown sugar, it’s a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, packing it for a picnic, or just need a light side dish, this apple salad is a crowd-pleaser. Its versatility makes it great for any season, and the combination of flavors ensures it will be a hit at the dinner table.

Ingredients:

2 medium apples, cored and cubed (use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Gala and Granny Smith)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1/2 cup red or green seedless grapes, halved
1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by cubing the apples into bite-sized pieces. Leave the skin on for added texture and color, but make sure to remove the core. To prevent the apples from browning, toss the cubes in lemon juice in a large mixing bowl. The lemon juice not only preserves the freshness but also adds a subtle tang to the salad.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and brown sugar. The mayonnaise provides a creamy base, while the brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients

To the bowl with the apples, add the chopped celery, halved grapes, pecans, and dried cranberries. These ingredients create a delicious balance of flavors and textures: the celery gives a crisp crunch, the grapes provide juiciness, the pecans bring nuttiness, and the dried cranberries add a burst of sweetness and chewiness.

Step 4: Combine the Dressing with the Salad

Pour the mayonnaise and brown sugar dressing over the apple mixture. Gently toss everything together until the fruit, nuts, and dressing are evenly combined. Make sure each piece of fruit is coated in the creamy dressing.

Step 5: Chill the Salad

Once the salad is thoroughly mixed, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Chilling the salad also gives the dressing time to set, creating a perfect consistency for serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

After the salad has chilled, give it a light toss before serving. You can serve it as is or add a sprinkle of extra pecans or cranberries on top for garnish. The salad is ready to be enjoyed by your family or guests!

Cooking Note:

If you prefer a slightly lighter dressing, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Feel free to switch up the nuts — walnuts or almonds work just as well if you don’t have pecans on hand.
You can also try adding a little cinnamon or nutmeg to the dressing for a touch of warmth and spice.

Serving Suggestions:

This apple salad can be served as a side dish at family dinners, BBQs, or holiday gatherings. It’s also great on its own for a light lunch or snack. To make it heartier, try serving it over a bed of fresh greens like spinach or arugula.

Another option is to serve this salad as part of a brunch spread, alongside quiches, sandwiches, or even as a refreshing side to a cheese platter.

Tips:

Apple variety matters: For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of apples such as Gala (for sweetness) and Granny Smith (for tartness). This creates a dynamic taste in each bite.
Make it ahead: You can prep the salad the night before, which allows the flavors to fully develop by the time you’re ready to serve it.
Dressing alternatives: If you’re looking for a healthier dressing, try using a vinaigrette made from olive oil, honey, and apple cider vinegar instead of mayonnaise and sugar.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Chill Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 200 kcal
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 150 mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 10g

Conclusion:

This Quick & Delicious Apple Salad is a delightful blend of sweet, crunchy, and juicy ingredients that can be thrown together in minutes. The tangy-sweet dressing complements the apples, grapes, and cranberries perfectly, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. It’s a salad that works for any occasion, from casual lunches to festive dinners. Best of all, it’s easy to make ahead and stores well, making it a stress-free addition to your meal plan. Give this recipe a try and see why it’s bound to become a family favorite!