🍎 Mediterranean Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans & Dried Cranberries
🌿 Description
This refreshing Mediterranean-style apple salad balances crunchy Honeycrisp apples, crisp celery, juicy grapes, toasted pecans, and tangy dried cranberries. Tossed in a light honey-lemon yogurt dressing with a hint of olive oil, it’s creamy without being heavy and naturally sweet without overpowering the fresh flavors. Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or healthy holiday addition.
🛒 Ingredients
For the salad:
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2 large Honeycrisp apples, cored & diced (leave skin on)
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1 cup seedless grapes, halved
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2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
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½ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
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½ cup pecans, lightly toasted & chopped
For the Mediterranean honey dressing:
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½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
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1½ tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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¼ tsp cinnamon (optional but lovely)
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Pinch of sea salt
🥣 Instructions
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Prep the produce
Dice the apples, slice the celery, and halve the grapes. Add everything to a large bowl along with cranberries and pecans. -
Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy. -
Toss & chill
Pour dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated. -
Serve
Chill for 15–20 minutes for best flavor, then serve cold.
✨ Tips & Variations
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Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra Mediterranean flair
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Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds
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Add a pinch of orange zest for brightness
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For vegan: use plant-based yogurt + maple syrup
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare up to 6 hours in advance. Toss apples with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
Q: Is this salad healthy?
A: Absolutely. It’s packed with fiber, antioxidants, healthy fats, and natural sweetness—very Mediterranean-friendly.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: Grilled chicken, baked fish, roasted turkey, or as part of a mezze platter.
Q: Can I skip the yogurt?
A: Yes! You can use a simple lemon-olive oil-honey vinaigrette instead.
