There's nothing better in Spring than a fresh and crisp salad. Patty Millay, from Owensboro, KY, has whipped up a delicious salad recipe that will be a hit at any luncheon, dinner or picnic you decide to host. It's a sweet take on a broccoli salad that will have you asking, "How about them apples??!"

From Patty:

I'm always looking for something new for a family occasion and with Easter is right around the corner, I was on the hunt. I fell upon this recipe, and I had most of the ingredients already in the house! I considered that a "sign"! This is a crisp and refreshing salad combining sweet Honeycrisp apples, crunchy broccoli, and a creamy tangy dressing. Perfect for gatherings or as a healthy side dish, this salad is packed with flavor and texture from fresh ingredients and a touch of sweetness.

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Here's how to make Honeycrisp Salad.

HONEYCRISP SALAD

4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
3 large Honeycrisp apples, diced
5 ounces dried cranberries
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cans of Sprite (or any lemon lime soda)
For the dressing:
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3-4 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1) Peel and dice the apples and soak them in Sprite for 15 minutes. Drain well, then start mixing your salad.
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, your diced Honeycrisp apples, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, shredded carrots, shredded cheddar and red onion (if you decide to use the onion).
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well coated.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow all those flavors to blend.
Patty Pro Tip: Your dressing should be VERY light and just barely coat your salad. Resist the urge to add additional dressing. Less is really best in this dish.

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Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz