Introduction
This delightful fruit salad combines the tartness of Granny Smith apples with the sweetness of Fuji apples and grapes, creating a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. The addition of crunchy celery and toasted walnuts provides texture, while a creamy dressing brings all the flavors together. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, this salad is sure to be a hit at gatherings or as a light lunch.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup chopped Granny Smith apple
1 cup chopped sweet apple (such as Fuji, Cosmic Crisp, Red Delicious, or Ambrosia)
1 tablespoon fresh or bottled lemon juice
1 cup diced celery
1 cup halved green seedless grapes
1 cup halved red seedless grapes
1 cup toasted and chopped walnuts
3 tablespoons heavy cream
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon strained honey
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including refrigeration)
Yield: Serves 4-6
This vibrant fruit salad is a blend of flavors and textures that can complement any meal. Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing treat!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Place the chopped Granny Smith and sweet apples in a large bowl. Drizzle with the lemon juice and stir the apples gently to coat them evenly. This step will help prevent the apples from browning.
Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients
Add the diced celery, halved green seedless grapes, halved red seedless grapes, and toasted chopped walnuts to the bowl with the apples. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, mayonnaise, and strained honey until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The dressing should be creamy and have a slight sweetness.
Step 4: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the apple salad mixture. Stir gently to make sure all ingredients are coated with the dressing, achieving a uniform consistency throughout the salad.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste of the salad.
Notes
Apple Selection
Using a combination of tart Granny Smith and sweet apples will give the salad a balanced flavor profile. Choose apples that are firm and fresh for the best texture.
Walnut Preparation
To toast walnuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Consistency of Dressing
You can adjust the thickness of the dressing by adding more heavy cream or mayonnaise according to your preference. The dressing can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Servings
This salad serves about 4-6 people as a side dish. Adjust the quantities of the ingredients according to the number of servings required.
Cook techniques
Chopping
Chop the Granny Smith and sweet apples into small, even pieces to ensure they mix well with other ingredients.
Dicing
Dice the celery into small, uniform pieces for consistent texture in the salad.
Halving
Halve the green and red seedless grapes to allow for easier mixing and eating.
Toasting Nuts
Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant, enhancing their flavor and crunch.
Whisking
Whisk together the heavy cream, mayonnaise, and honey until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy dressing.
Coating
Ensure that the dressing is thoroughly mixed with the salad ingredients by stirring well, allowing the flavors to meld.
Chilling
Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour to allow the flavors to develop and the ingredients to cool, enhancing taste.
FAQ
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can substitute with other apple varieties, but choose ones that balance tartness and sweetness.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if you want a lighter dressing.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but note that the apples may brown.
Can I add other fruits or vegetables?
Absolutely, feel free to add other fruits or vegetables like berries or carrots for additional flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
This delicious salad combines the crunch of apples and celery with the sweetness of grapes and honey, creating a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The addition of walnuts adds a satisfying texture, while the creamy dressing binds all the flavors together. It’s a delightful mix that is sure to please the palate.
Apple and Chicken Salad
Combine diced cooked chicken with the same apple, grape, and walnut mixture for a hearty protein-packed salad.
Fruit and Nut Yogurt Parfait
Layer the apple, grape, and walnut mixture with yogurt and granola for a nutritious breakfast or snack.
Autumn Harvest Salad
Add roasted butternut squash and a sprinkle of feta cheese to the apple and grape salad for a fall-inspired dish.
Quinoa Apple Salad
Mix cooked quinoa with the salad ingredients for a wholesome grain-based option that adds extra fiber.
Cheese and Nut Platter
Serve the apple, grape, and walnut salad alongside assorted cheeses for an elegant appetizer or snack on a cheese board.
