Apple Salad

Before You Get Started

Growing up in the South, creamy fruit salads have always been a staple at holiday gatherings, church potlucks, and family suppers. Unlike other sweet and creamy dessert salads (like my Apple Snickers Salad), this dish is lightened up with Greek yogurt and minimal added sugar.

Before you start chopping, here are a few quick tips to help you get the best results:

• Choose a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor and color. Granny Smith and Honey Crisp make a great pair.
• Toss the apples with lemon juice right away so they stay fresh and bright.
• Add-ins like nuts, coconut, dried cherries, or raisins bring extra texture and flavor.
• If you want to make it ahead, wait until serving time to stir in the nuts so they stay crunchy.

** Tip: For a salad that kids will gobble up, fold in a handful or two of mini marshmallows.

Step-by-Step: How to Make this Apple Salad Recipe

Here’s exactly how to do it, with extra tips you won’t find in the recipe card:

Step 1: Chop and Toss the Apples

Start by chopping your apples into bite-sized chunks. I like to leave the skins on because they add pretty color and a little extra nutrition. As soon as they’re chopped, toss the apples with raisins in lemon juice to keep the apples from browning.

** Tip: If you don’t have lemon juice, another acidic juice (such as orange juice) will do the trick.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt or sour cream, mayonnaise, and a little brown sugar if you’re using plain yogurt or sour cream. The dressing should be smooth and just sweet enough to balance the tartness of the apples. For extra richness and a thicker, more indulgent salad, use extra mayo to taste.

** Flavor Booster: This is a great time to add some warm spices if you’d like, too (cinnamon or apple pie spice are great options).

Step 3: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Gently fold the dressing into the apples and raisins. Take your time with this step so the apples stay crisp and the dressing coats evenly.

Step 4: Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors mingle and gives the apples a chance to soak up the dressing.

Step 5: Add Crunch Before Serving

Right before serving, sprinkle in the nuts (and coconut, if you’d like). This way they’ll keep their crunch and won’t get soggy.

** Nut-Free Swap: Instead of walnuts or pecans, use toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nice crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This apple salad recipe pairs well with holiday meals like maple-glazed roasted turkey breast, Virginia oven baked ham, or grilled beef tenderloin; with everyday dinners like Southern meatloaf, oven bbq chicken thighs, or smothered pork chops; and with light lunches alongside a slice of cornbread or a bowl of chicken vegetable soup.

Variations and Add-Ins

• Add grapes and celery for a classic Waldorf-style apple salad.
• Swap raisins for dried cranberries or dried cherries for a tart pop of flavor.
• Stir in marshmallows or chopped Snickers bars for a kid-friendly potluck dish.
• Mix in pears or pumpkin seeds for a fall harvest version.
• Add drained pineapple tidbits for a tropical taste.
• Use only yogurt if you’d like to skip the mayonnaise for a lighter salad.

** Flavor Boost: Toast your walnuts to really bring out their flavor before adding them to the salad.

Preparation and Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: Prepare the salad up to 4 hours in advance. The lemon juice helps keep the apples fresh.
• How to Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Stir gently just before serving.
• Prevent Browning: Always toss the apples with lemon juice or other citrus juice to keep them from turning brown.
• Texture Tip: Wait to add the nuts until just before serving. This helps maintain their crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I keep the apples from turning brown? Toss them in lemon juice or another citrus juice right after chopping.
• What apples are best for apple salad? A mix of tart and sweet apples works best. Granny Smith, Gala, Honey Crisp, Fuji, and Braeburn are all great options.
• Can I make apple salad the day before Thanksgiving or Christmas? Yes, just stir in the nuts right before serving so they stay crunchy. If the dressing seems thin after sitting overnight in the juices, just stir in some extra mayo or yogurt.
• Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise? You sure can. It will give the salad a sweeter flavor.
• Why did my apple salad turn watery? Apples naturally release juice. If that happens, just drain off the excess liquid and add a little more mayo or yogurt to thicken the dressing back up.