This Apple Cranberry Pecan Salad is a vibrant, refreshing fruit salad that perfectly balances sweet, tart, and nutty flavors. Crisp green apples provide a juicy crunch, dried cranberries add chewy sweetness with a hint of tartness, and toasted pecans deliver buttery richness. It’s lightly coated in a creamy, subtly sweet dressing that ties everything together without overpowering the natural flavors.

This salad is ideal for holiday dinners, Thanksgiving side dishes, Christmas gatherings, potlucks, brunch spreads, or healthy meal prep. It’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with texture and flavor. Plus, it offers nutritional benefits from fiber-rich apples, antioxidant-packed cranberries, and heart-healthy pecans.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 large green apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), diced

• 1 cup dried cranberries

• 1 cup pecans (halves or roughly chopped)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)

• Optional: ½ cup diced pears or red apples for extra sweetness

For the Creamy Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Wash and core the apples. Dice into bite-sized cubes. Immediately toss them with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and browning.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended)

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pecans for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. This enhances their flavor and crunch. Let cool before adding to the salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), honey, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add diced apples, dried cranberries, and pecans. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently fold until evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Flavor Profile & Texture

• Sweet: Honey, apples, cranberries

• Tart: Granny Smith apples, cranberries

• Crunchy: Fresh apples and toasted pecans

• Creamy: Light dressing coating

The result is a perfectly balanced salad that works as a side dish or light dessert.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad isn’t just delicious — it also fits into many healthy eating plans:

• Apples provide dietary fiber and vitamin C.

• Cranberries are rich in antioxidants.

• Pecans contain healthy fats that support heart health.

• Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise increases protein and reduces calories.

It can easily be adapted into a low-calorie recipe, gluten-free side dish, or even a keto-friendly holiday salad by substituting dried cranberries with unsweetened versions and using a sugar-free sweetener.

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• If preparing ahead for meal prep, keep dressing separate and mix before serving for maximum freshness.

Variations

• Add mini marshmallows for a classic “holiday fluff” style.

• Mix in shredded chicken for a protein-packed lunch option.

• Sprinkle with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a savory twist.

• Add spinach or arugula to turn it into a gourmet green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (High-Value Search Queries)

1. How do you keep apples from turning brown in fruit salad?

Toss diced apples in lemon juice immediately after cutting. The citric acid slows oxidation and preserves color.

2. Can I make apple cranberry pecan salad ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. For best texture, add pecans just before serving.

3. Is apple cranberry salad healthy for weight loss?

Yes, especially if made with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It’s rich in fiber and healthy fats, which promote fullness.

4. What protein pairs well with this salad?

Grilled chicken breast, roasted turkey, baked ham, or even salmon complement this salad beautifully.

5. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries are much more tart. If using them, chop finely and add extra honey to balance the flavor.

6. What dressing alternatives work well?

You can use a light vinaigrette, maple Dijon dressing, or a whipped cream-based dressing for a sweeter dessert-style version.