Crisp Apple Salad with Raisins and Pecans

This Crisp Apple Salad with Raisins and Pecans is a refreshing, sweet, and savory dish that’s perfect for a healthy snack or a side. Featuring crunchy apples, toasted pecans, and creamy dressing, it’s a simple yet flavorful choice.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed apples (about 4 medium apples, cut into approximately ½-inch pieces)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ⅔ cup diced celery
• 1 cup pecans (preferably toasted or glazed)
• 1 cup raisins (golden raisins are preferred, or dried cranberries)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup plain or vanilla yogurt
• 1 dash cinnamon
• 1 pinch granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, add the cubed apples, lemon juice, diced celery, toasted or glazed pecans, and raisins.
2. Mix the Dressing:
   In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, yogurt, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth.
3. Toss Together:
   Gently stir or toss the ingredients in the large bowl to combine, ensuring the dressing evenly coats the fruits and nuts.
4. Chill (Optional):
   For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or immediately if preferred.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing and Crisp: The crunchy apples and celery combined with creamy dressing offer a refreshing, light dish perfect for any time of year.
• Sweet and Savory: The addition of raisins or cranberries with toasted pecans gives the salad a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.
• Versatile and Quick: This easy-to-make salad comes together in minutes, making it a great choice for a quick snack, side dish, or potluck offering.

Tips

• Apple Variety: For a well-rounded flavor, consider using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Gala and Granny Smith.
• Yogurt Options: You can use Greek yogurt for a thicker, tangier dressing, or opt for non-dairy yogurt to make the salad dairy-free.
• Toasting Nuts: Toasting the pecans brings out their natural flavor and adds an extra layer of depth to the salad. Simply toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring often.

Variations and Substitutions

• Fruit Mix-ins: Feel free to add other fruits like pears, grapes, or pomegranate seeds to change up the flavor and texture.
• Nuts: If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutions.
• Dressing: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the mayonnaise with extra yogurt or a splash of lemon juice.
• Sweeteners: For a touch more sweetness, drizzle honey or maple syrup into the dressing.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, this salad can be made in advance. The flavors will deepen in the fridge, but keep in mind that the apples may brown slightly. Tossing the apples with lemon juice before mixing helps preserve their color.

Q: Can I use a different type of yogurt?
A: Yes, you can use flavored yogurt like vanilla or even dairy-free yogurt. Just adjust the sweetness of the dressing accordingly if using flavored varieties.

Q: What can I substitute for raisins?
A: You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, currants, or even chopped dried apricots for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, pork, or fish.
• For a Light Lunch: Serve it on a bed of greens, such as spinach or arugula, for a light, filling lunch.
• For Special Occasions: This salad is ideal for holiday meals, picnics, or brunches and can be served as a refreshing side.
• Garnish: Top with additional toasted pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an added touch of flavor.

---