Apple Salad with Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries

This Apple Salad with Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries is a delightful burst of fresh, crisp flavors in every bite! It’s the perfect combination of sweetness, crunch, and tang, all tossed together in a light and creamy dressing. Imagine the juicy crunch of apples and grapes, the buttery crunch of pecans, and the sweet-tart pop of dried cranberries. Each bite is a refreshing contrast of textures and flavors, making it ideal for picnics, holiday dinners, or just as a healthy snack when you’re craving something light and satisfying.

It’s easy to make and even easier to love! Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Trust me—once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love Apple Salad with Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries

• Simple & Quick: With just a handful of ingredients, this salad comes together in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The sweetness of the apples and grapes is perfectly complemented by the tangy dried cranberries and crunchy pecans.
• Versatile: It can be served as a side dish or even as a light, refreshing lunch.
• Customizable: Want to make it creamier? Add a little more dressing. Looking for a tangier twist? Add some lemon juice or orange zest. The possibilities are endless!
• Healthy & Delicious: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is as good for you as it is tasty.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 large apples, diced: Fresh and crisp, apples add the perfect crunch and a touch of sweetness.
• 1 cup red grapes, halved: Juicy and sweet, these grapes bring a pop of flavor to the salad.
• ½ cup pecans, chopped: The nuts add a rich, buttery crunch that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
• ½ cup dried cranberries: Tart and sweet, they give the salad a burst of chewy texture and a bright color.

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Creamy and tangy, this serves as the base for the dressing.
• 2 tbsp honey: A natural sweetener that perfectly complements the fruit’s freshness.
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Adds just the right amount of tang to balance the sweetness.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: A touch of acidity to brighten the flavors and keep the fruit fresh.
• Pinch of salt: To bring all the flavors together and enhance the overall taste.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

Start by washing and prepping the apples and grapes. Dice the apples into bite-sized pieces, and halve the grapes. Chop the pecans and set them aside. If you prefer the cranberries to be softer, you can soak them in a bit of warm water for 5-10 minutes, but it’s totally optional.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking by adding more honey or lemon juice.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the apples, grapes, pecans, and dried cranberries. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Once everything is combined, you can serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled for the most refreshing taste!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 210
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
Sodium: 45mg
Total Carbohydrate: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 21g
Protein: 6g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Apple Salad with Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries

• As a Side Dish: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables for a light, balanced meal.
• As a Snack: It makes for a satisfying, healthy snack that’s refreshing and filling.
• For Special Occasions: Serve it at holiday dinners, potlucks, or summer picnics for a dish that everyone will love.

Additional Tips

• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, toss in some grilled chicken, turkey, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese.
• Make it Vegan: To make the salad vegan, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Use Different Nuts: Feel free to swap out the pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even cashews, depending on your preferences.
• Customize the Dressing: If you want a lighter dressing, try using a mix of yogurt and lemon juice, or add some mustard for an extra tangy kick.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of fruit in this salad?
A1: Absolutely! Pears, oranges, or even pineapple would make a great substitute for the apples or grapes.

Q2: How long will this salad last in the fridge?
A2: This salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge. It’s best to eat it within that time to enjoy the crispness of the fruit.

Q3: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance, but I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to prevent the fruit from becoming soggy.

Q4: Can I add a different type of nut?
A4: Yes, feel free to use walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Q5: Can I use a different type of dressing?
A5: Yes! If you prefer a vinaigrette-style dressing, you can swap the Greek yogurt dressing for a simple mix of olive oil, vinegar, and mustard.

Q6: Is this salad good for meal prep?
A6: This salad can be prepped ahead of time, but I suggest storing the dressing separately to keep the fruits fresh and crisp.

Q7: Can I use dried fruit other than cranberries?
A7: Yes, dried cherries, raisins, or even dried blueberries would work well in this salad!

Q8: Can I use non-dairy yogurt?
A8: Yes, any non-dairy yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt can be used in place of the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free version.

Q9: Can I add some greens to this salad?
A9: Definitely! Baby spinach, arugula, or mixed greens would add an extra layer of freshness to this salad.

Q10: How can I make this salad sweeter?
A10: If you like a sweeter salad, you can add extra honey or even sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on the fruit before tossing it with the dressing.

Conclusion

This Apple Salad with Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries is a delicious, refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crisp apples, juicy grapes, crunchy pecans, and sweet-tart cranberries, this salad has it all—texture, flavor, and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Whip it up in just 10 minutes, and enjoy this light, flavorful salad that’s sure to become a staple at your table!