Name: Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups broccoli florets (washed and dried); 2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1/3 cup toasted sunflower seeds; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/3 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

I’ve always had a soft spot for a crisp, refreshing salad that feels as satisfying as a full meal—and this Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is exactly that kind of dish. The first time I tossed it together, I wasn’t expecting to love it as much as I did. But between the crunchy broccoli florets, the sweet-tart bite of fresh Honeycrisp apples, and the satisfying pop of toasted seeds and crisp bacon, it became a regular feature in my kitchen. It’s the kind of salad that earns compliments, disappears quickly, and somehow tastes even better after it’s had a bit of time to chill in the fridge.

What I especially adore about this salad is its balance. The creamy, slightly tangy dressing pulls everything together without overpowering the natural textures and flavors. The apples bring just the right touch of sweetness, the red onions add a bit of sharpness, and the toasted bits—whether sunflower seeds or chopped pecans—bring in that final crunch. It’s perfect for picnics, holiday spreads, or just as a reliable side for any dinner you want to make special.

Why You’ll Love This Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

This salad checks all the boxes: it’s quick to prep, it holds up beautifully in the fridge, and it’s got layers of texture that keep each bite interesting. It’s naturally gluten-free, easy to customize, and loaded with vitamins and fiber thanks to the broccoli and apples. Whether you’re making it ahead for a weekday lunch or bringing it to a cookout, this is the kind of dish that earns a spot in your regular rotation.

What Kind of Apples Work Best in Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad?

While the recipe highlights Honeycrisp apples for their sweet, juicy crunch, you can absolutely use other varieties if needed. I’ve found that Fuji and Pink Lady are excellent substitutes, offering a similar balance of sweetness and crispness. Granny Smith can add a tart contrast if you’re looking for something a bit tangier. Just be sure to choose an apple that’s firm and crisp—you want it to hold up and give that fresh crunch in every bite, not turn soft or mushy once it’s mixed in.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this salad is how flexible it is. If you need to make swaps based on diet or what’s in your fridge, here are some options:

Bacon: You can leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version, or replace it with plant-based bacon or roasted chickpeas for crunch and flavor.
Sunflower Seeds: Toasted almonds, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds work beautifully if you want to switch it up.
Greek Yogurt Dressing: If you prefer a vegan option, use a plant-based yogurt or mayo and a splash of lemon juice for tang.
Red Onion: Shallots or thinly sliced green onions can stand in, especially if you want something milder.
Broccoli: If raw broccoli isn’t your thing, a quick blanch softens it slightly while keeping the vibrant color and crunch.

These substitutions let you tailor the salad exactly to your taste while keeping the spirit of the dish intact.

Ingredients for this Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Broccoli Florets
The base of the salad—crisp, fresh broccoli brings a hearty crunch and a nutritious foundation full of fiber and vitamins.

Honeycrisp Apples
Their sweet-tart flavor and firm texture are the perfect contrast to the earthy broccoli. They add brightness and juiciness in every bite.

Red Onion
Thinly sliced for a sharp, zesty punch that cuts through the creaminess and adds depth.

Toasted Sunflower Seeds
These add a lovely nutty crunch and extra texture, making each forkful a little more satisfying.

Cooked Bacon
Crispy, salty, and savory—it balances the sweetness of the apples and adds a rich, smoky element.

Mayonnaise
The creamy base of the dressing. It coats the salad ingredients without making them soggy.

Greek Yogurt
Lightens the dressing while adding tang and protein. It makes the salad feel fresh, not heavy.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Brings brightness and acidity to the dressing, balancing out the creaminess and enhancing the apple flavor.

Honey
A touch of sweetness that ties the dressing together and complements the apples perfectly.

Salt and Pepper
Essential for seasoning—just enough to bring everything into balance without overpowering the natural flavors.

Step 1: Prep the Broccoli

Start by washing and thoroughly drying your broccoli. Cut it into small, bite-sized florets. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, blanch the florets in boiling water for 30 seconds, then shock them in ice water. Drain well.

Step 2: Slice the Apples and Onions

Thinly slice the Honeycrisp apples—no need to peel them. A mandoline or sharp knife works best for even slices. Also, thinly slice the red onion and, if needed, soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the bite.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

Fry or bake the bacon until it’s golden and crisp. Once cooled, crumble or chop it into small bits. Set aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.

Step 4: Toast the Seeds

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sunflower seeds (or nut of your choice) for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Let them cool.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, sliced apples, onions, bacon, and toasted seeds. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

How Long to Cook the Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Technically, this is a no-cook salad—except for a couple of quick elements. Cooking the bacon takes about 10–12 minutes, and toasting the seeds just 2–3 minutes. If you decide to blanch the broccoli, that’s another quick 30 seconds in boiling water. Altogether, the full salad can be prepped and assembled in around 20–25 minutes, with optional chilling time to deepen the flavors.

Tips for Perfect Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

Dry Your Ingredients Well: Especially the broccoli—excess moisture will thin out the dressing and make the salad soggy.
Slice Apples Just Before Mixing: This keeps them crisp and prevents browning. A little lemon juice can also help preserve their color.
Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to rest in the fridge before serving helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Adjust Dressing to Taste: Add more vinegar for tang, or honey for sweetness depending on your preference.
Keep Textures Varied: Cut the ingredients in different shapes and sizes to make each bite interesting.
Add Dressing Just Before Serving (if prepping ahead): This prevents the apples and seeds from softening too much.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Chill Time: The salad really benefits from resting in the fridge. It helps the flavors meld and gives the dressing time to set into the ingredients.
Overdressing the Salad: Start with less dressing and add more if needed. You can always add, but you can’t take it out.
Not Toasting the Seeds: This small step adds a big layer of flavor. Raw seeds lack that deep, nutty crunch.
Slicing Apples Too Early: Apples brown quickly, so wait until the last minute or coat them in lemon juice to keep them fresh.
Overcooking the Bacon: You want crisp, not charred. Too dark and it becomes bitter.
Using Wet Broccoli: Moisture can water down your dressing and dull the crunch. Use a salad spinner or pat it dry with paper towels.

What to Serve With Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad?

Grilled Chicken Breast

A juicy, simply seasoned chicken breast makes a protein-packed pairing that doesn’t compete with the bold salad flavors.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

The sweet, tangy crunch of the salad balances the richness of barbecue pork beautifully.

Quiche or Savory Tart

Perfect for brunch—the salad adds a refreshing contrast to buttery pastry and custard fillings.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

The caramelized edges and earthy sweetness play off the tart apples and creamy dressing.

Turkey Burgers

Lighter than beef, turkey burgers pair well with the crisp freshness of the salad.

Baked Salmon

Especially with a lemon-herb glaze, salmon adds richness that the salad cuts through nicely.

Veggie Skewers

For a lighter, plant-based meal, grilled vegetable skewers offer smokiness and color to round out the plate.

Cheese and Charcuterie Board

As a side on a grazing board, this salad brings crunch, creaminess, and a touch of sweetness.

Storage Instructions

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep. Once mixed, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and crunchy for up to 3 days, though the apples may soften slightly over time. If you’re prepping in advance, consider storing the dressing separately and combining everything just before serving to preserve the crisp textures. Avoid freezing—this salad is all about fresh crunch, and freezing will compromise that.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings total):

Calories: 260
Protein: 6g
Fat: 19g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 9g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 320mg

These numbers will vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients and brands you use, especially for items like bacon and dressing components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Honeycrisp apples the best for this salad?

Their natural balance of sweetness and acidity, along with a super crisp texture, makes Honeycrisp apples ideal—they hold up well and add great flavor contrast.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

It’s not recommended. Frozen broccoli tends to be soft and watery once thawed, which changes the texture and doesn’t give the crunch this salad relies on.

Is there a dairy-free option for the dressing?

Yes! Use a plant-based yogurt or just stick with a vegan mayo base and a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for tang.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Absolutely. It’s actually better after it chills for at least 30 minutes. Just keep the dressing separate if you’re making it more than a day ahead.

How do I keep the apples from browning?

Slice them just before serving or toss them in a bit of lemon juice to slow oxidation and maintain their fresh look and taste.

What protein can I add to make this a full meal?

Grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or roasted chickpeas are great additions to turn this salad into a satisfying main dish.

Can I skip the bacon?

Yes! For a vegetarian version, just leave it out or replace with crispy chickpeas, vegan bacon, or extra nuts/seeds for crunch.

Is this salad kid-friendly?

It can be! If raw onions are too strong, leave them out or swap for something milder like green onions or even dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.

Conclusion

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad is one of those dishes that manages to be both refreshing and satisfying, with layers of texture and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a light main course, its balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory makes it a standout. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, I think you’ll understand why it’s a go-to favorite in my kitchen.