Creamy Apple Fruit Salad with Nuts and Yogurt Dressing Recipe

If you are looking for a delightful and wholesome dish that combines sweetness, crunch, and a creamy tang, then this Creamy Apple Fruit Salad with Nuts and Yogurt Dressing Recipe is just what you need. It’s a vibrant mix of fresh apples, grapes, and celery, tossed with crunchy walnuts and raisins, all lovingly coated in a luscious yogurt-based dressing that’s subtly sweetened with honey and brightened with lemon juice. This salad strikes the perfect balance between refreshing and satisfying, making it an ideal treat for any time of day or a stellar addition to your family table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this salad is simple but essential, as each one brings its own unique flavor, texture, and color that make this dish truly special. From crisp apples to creamy Greek yogurt, these elements come together to create a harmonious blend that’s both nutritious and delicious.

• 2 large apples: Choose a crisp variety like Granny Smith or Fuji for firm texture and vibrant flavor.
• 1 cup grapes: Seedless grapes add juiciness and a burst of sweetness.
• 1/2 cup walnuts: Chopped walnuts provide a satisfying crunch and a rich, nutty taste.
• 1/4 cup raisins: Raisins lend natural sweetness and a chewy contrast.
• 1/4 cup celery: Thinly sliced celery adds a fresh, crisp bite that balances the salad.
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt: This forms the creamy base of the dressing, adding tang and protein.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Honey sweetens the dressing naturally and enhances the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Lemon juice brightens the dressing and prevents apples from browning.
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: Cinnamon introduces a warm, aromatic note that complements the fruit.

How to Make Creamy Apple Fruit Salad with Nuts and Yogurt Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your fresh fruit, nuts, and other ingredients to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Washing and prepping everything upfront makes assembling the salad a breeze.

Step 2: Wash and Chop the Apples

Wash the apples thoroughly under cool running water to remove any residue. Core them to remove seeds, then chop into bite-sized cubes. These cubes will give the salad its signature crunch and fresh flavor.

Step 3: Add Halved Grapes

Rinse the grapes well, dry them gently, then cut each grape in half. Adding grapes introduces a juicy sweetness that bursts with every bite, balancing the texture of the apples.

Step 4: Chop the Walnuts

Coarsely chop the walnuts using a sharp knife or lightly crush them for a slightly varied texture. Walnuts add a rich, earthy crunch that elevates the salad’s flavor profile.

Step 5: Include the Raisins

Mix in your raisins, which lend a chewy, naturally sweet element that contrasts beautifully with the fresh fruit and crunchy nuts.

Step 6: Slice the Celery

After washing, thinly slice the celery stalks to add a crisp, refreshing crunch that cuts through the creaminess of the yogurt dressing.

Step 7: Make the Yogurt Dressing

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt with honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth and well blended. This dressing is the heart of the Creamy Apple Fruit Salad with Nuts and Yogurt Dressing Recipe, bringing everything together with its creamy, tangy sweetness.

Step 8: Toss Everything Together

Pour the yogurt dressing over your fruit and nut mixture, gently folding everything until all pieces are evenly coated. A gentle hand ensures the fruit stays intact but well dressed.

Step 9: Chill and Adjust

Place your salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill and allow the flavors to meld perfectly. Before serving, taste and add a dash more honey or lemon juice if you want to tweak the balance of sweetness and tang.

How to Serve Creamy Apple Fruit Salad with Nuts and Yogurt Dressing Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a few extra walnut halves or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top just before serving adds both an appealing texture and visual charm. Fresh mint leaves also make a refreshing garnish that pairs beautifully with the fruit’s natural sweetness.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Apple Fruit Salad with Nuts and Yogurt Dressing Recipe pairs exceptionally well with light grilled chicken or fish dishes. It also shines as a bright, nutritious side for brunch alongside avocado toast or omelets.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve your salad in crisp lettuce cups or hollowed-out apples. Layering in clear glass bowls allows the vibrant colors of the salad to shine through, making it irresistible at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The yogurt dressing will help keep the fruit moist, but the apples may slowly soften, so enjoy leftovers promptly for the best texture.

Freezing

Freezing this salad is not recommended because the yogurt dressing and fresh fruits will lose their texture and become watery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be served cold for maximum refreshing flavor, so reheating is generally unnecessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to sit at room temperature for a short while rather than applying heat.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work wonderfully in this salad, offering a slightly different but equally delicious crunch and flavor profile.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative and use maple syrup or agave instead of honey. The salad will maintain its creamy texture and delightful taste.

How can I prevent the apples from browning?

The lemon juice in the dressing helps prevent browning, but you can also toss the apples immediately after cutting to further keep them fresh and crisp.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Definitely! Pears, berries, or even chopped kiwi can add interesting flavors and textures, making the Creamy Apple Fruit Salad with Nuts and Yogurt Dressing Recipe versatile and customizable.

What type of Greek yogurt is best to use?

Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt is ideal for this recipe because it offers a rich creaminess and balanced tang. However, low-fat versions work well too if you prefer a lighter option.

Final Thoughts

If you want a refreshing and wholesome dish that’s full of flavor and texture, this Creamy Apple Fruit Salad with Nuts and Yogurt Dressing Recipe should be your next go-to. It’s simple to prepare yet impressively satisfying, whether as a snack, side dish, or even a light dessert. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes one of your favorite salads to serve and share.

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