Crisp Broccoli & Apple Harvest Salad
This vibrant and refreshing salad combines the best flavors of fall with crisp broccoli, juicy tart apples, savory sharp cheddar, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for the harvest season or any time you crave a taste of autumn freshness. With a creamy cider dressing, this salad boasts the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it an ideal side dish that captures the essence of seasonal produce.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Broccoli florets
7 cups (none)
Tart apples
2 small (cored and diced)
Red onion
1/3 cup (chopped)
Sharp cheddar cheese
6 ounces (diced)
Pecans
1/3 cup (chopped)
Mayonnaise
1 cup (low-fat is okay)
Cider vinegar
1 tablespoon (none)
Sugar
1 tablespoon (none)
Salt and pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced apples, chopped red onion, diced sharp cheddar cheese, and chopped pecans. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
2
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and well combined.
3
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and gently toss until all the ingredients are thoroughly coated.
4
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5
For best flavor and texture, serve immediately. If needed, you can make it ahead of time and refrigerate for up to a few hours, but it's best enjoyed on the same day.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main base of the Crisp Broccoli & Apple Harvest Salad?
The main base consists of 7 cups of fresh broccoli florets.
What type of apples should be used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for two small tart apples, cored and diced.
What kind of cheese is recommended for the salad?
Six ounces of diced sharp cheddar cheese are used for a savory flavor profile.
Which nuts are included in the harvest salad?
Chopped pecans provide the crunch in this autumn-inspired dish.
What are the ingredients in the creamy cider dressing?
The dressing is made from a blend of mayonnaise, cider vinegar, and sugar.
Can I use low-fat mayonnaise for this recipe?
Yes, the recipe notes that low-fat mayonnaise is a suitable option for the dressing.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This salad yields approximately 6 servings.
How should the red onion be prepared?
The red onion should be finely chopped, totaling about 1/3 cup.
Is the broccoli cooked or raw in this salad?
The broccoli is used raw in the form of bite-sized florets for a crisp texture.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it is best served immediately, you can refrigerate it for up to a few hours before serving.
What makes this a seasonal fall salad?
The combination of tart apples, pecans, and cider vinegar captures the essential flavors of the harvest season.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly salad as it contains no meat products.
How much cider vinegar is required?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of cider vinegar for the dressing.
Is there any sugar in the dressing?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of sugar is added to balance the tanginess of the vinegar.
How should the pecans be prepared?
The 1/3 cup of pecans should be chopped before being added to the mix.
What is the first step in preparing the salad?
The first step is to combine broccoli, apples, onion, cheese, and pecans in a large mixing bowl.
How do I ensure the dressing is smooth?
Whisk the mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar together in a separate small bowl before pouring it over the salad.
Should the apples be peeled?
The recipe specifies coring and dicing the apples, but leaving the skins on adds color and nutrients.
How is the salad seasoned?
It is seasoned to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
What is the overall flavor profile of the dish?
The salad offers a balance of sweetness from the apples and sugar, tanginess from the vinegar, and savory notes from the cheddar and onion.
Is this salad suitable for holiday gatherings?
Yes, its seasonal ingredients make it an ideal side dish for holiday meals like Thanksgiving.
What is the preparation time like for this recipe?
It is described as an easy side dish requiring only basic chopping and mixing.
How much sharp cheddar is needed?
The recipe calls for 6 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese.
Can I substitute the red onion?
While red onion provides a specific bite, you could substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
Is there any oil in the dressing?
No, the dressing relies on mayonnaise for its creamy base.
What type of bowl should I use?
A large mixing bowl is recommended to allow enough space for tossing the 7 cups of broccoli florets.
Does the salad contain gluten?
Based on the ingredients list, the salad is naturally gluten-free, though you should check your mayonnaise label.
Can I add other fruits to this salad?
While the recipe focuses on apples, dried cranberries are a common addition to this style of harvest salad.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within the same day for best texture.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
While specific measurements aren't provided, the total recipe is intended to serve 6 people.