Apple Cranberry Salad Recipe

I absolutely love this Apple Cranberry Salad recipe because it’s the perfect blend of tart and sweet with those vibrant cranberries and crisp Granny Smith apples, adding a refreshing twist to my day. Plus, the crunchy walnuts and juicy golden raisins make it feel like fall in every bite, without overwhelming my taste buds—it’s like having a festive feast that’s healthy and Instagram-worthy!

I love to mix the crispness of Granny Smith apples with the tartness of fresh cranberries for a vibrant Apple Cranberry Salad. The chopped walnuts and golden raisins add texture and natural sweetness.

A hint of cinnamon and a splash of lemon juice intensify the flavors. This salad is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy deliciousness.

It is also a compact package of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Ingredients

Granny Smith Apples:
These apples are refreshing and sour, and they’re filled with fiber.

Fresh Cranberries:
Yield a sharp taste and are plentiful in antioxidants and vitamin C.

Chopped Walnuts:
Provide a pleasing crunch and are an excellent source of wholesome fats and proteins.

Golden Raisins:
They add a touch of natural sugar and chewy texture, which are two qualities you should definitely look for in a healthy snack.

Chopped Celery:
Adds a delightful crunch and a dash of earthiness, in addition to its hydrating benefits.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 large Granny Smith apples, cored and diced
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, halved
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup golden raisins
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a big mixing bowl, combine the diced Granny Smith apples and the halved cranberries.

2. In the bowl, add the chopped walnuts, golden raisins, and chopped celery. Toss gently to mix.

3. In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the fresh lemon juice and honey until they are completely blended.

4. The apple and cranberry mixture needs the mixture of lemon juice and honey.

5. Dust the salad with ground cinnamon and salt.

6. With a large spoon, the salad should be stirred gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

7. If necessary, taste and adjust the seasoning. If needed, add more honey or lemon juice.

8. Plastic wrap should be used to cover the bowl, and then it should be refrigerated. The salad needs at least 30 minutes in the fridge for the flavors to meld and mature properly.

9. Prior to serving, give the salad a rapid toss to redistribute any dressing that may have settled.

10. Place the salad in a dish for serving, and enjoy your delightfully refreshing Apple Cranberry Salad.

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Small bowl
3. Sharp knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring cups
6. Measuring spoons
7. Large spoon
8. Plastic wrap

FAQ

• Can I substitute dried cranberries for fresh cranberries?If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can use dried ones. However, use only 1/2 cup since they are much sweeter and more concentrated than fresh cranberries.
• Is there an alternative nut to walnuts?Certainly! Pecans or almonds serve as fine substitutes for walnuts in this salad.
• How do I prevent the apples from browning?To prevent browning, the diced apples should be immediately tossed with lemon juice right after cutting.
• Is there a vegan substitute for honey?Maple syrup or agave nectar can be utilized as a vegan substitute for honey.
• Can this salad be made ahead of time?It is permissible to prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just before serving, add the nuts to preserve their crunch and to give the salad its complete texture.
• What are some serving suggestions?This salad goes well with roasted meats or can be served as a refreshing side dish at holiday gatherings.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitute Fuji or Honeycrisp apples for Granny Smith apples for a unique texture and sweetness.
Cranberries that are fresh: For a somewhat sweeter, less-tart option, use dried cranberries.
Walnuts, chopped: Use pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Golden raisins: Substitute with standard raisins or chopped, dried apricots.
Diced cucumber: Substitute this for chopped celery if you desire a more mellow crunch.

Pro Tips

1. Toast the Walnuts Enhance the flavor and texture of the walnuts by toasting them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they become fragrant and golden brown. Let them cool before adding to the salad.

2. Chill Ingredients Ensure all your ingredients, especially the apples and cranberries, are chilled before preparing the salad. This helps maintain the crispness of the apples and enhances the refreshing nature of the salad.

3. Prevent Apple Browning Toss the diced apples in a little lemon juice immediately after cutting to prevent them from browning. This helps keep them looking vibrant and fresh.

4. Customize Sweetness/Acidity Adjust the honey and lemon juice in small increments according to your personal taste. More honey will sweeten the salad, while additional lemon juice will enhance its tanginess.

5. Add Fresh Herbs Consider adding a small amount of chopped fresh mint or parsley for an extra layer of flavor. This can add brightness and enhance the overall taste of the salad.