Cinnamon Apple Grape Salad
Cinnamon apple grape salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that brings together the sweet and crisp flavors of apples and grapes, all enhanced by a warm touch of cinnamon. This salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also makes for a colorful addition to any meal or gathering.
Why Make This Recipe
This cinnamon apple grape salad is perfect for a balancing act of nutrition and flavor. It’s simple yet elegant, making it a suitable option for everything from casual family dinners to sophisticated gatherings. Beyond its deliciousness, this salad is loaded with vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh fruits and nuts, which help support your health. The added sweetness of honey and the warm spice of cinnamon create a comforting sensation, making it an ideal dish for any season.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Grape Salad
Creating your cinnamon apple grape salad is easy and requires just a few simple steps. The entire process takes only a few minutes, allowing you to whip up this delightful side dish or dessert in no time!
Ingredients
- 3 medium apples, diced
- 2 cups red grapes, halved
- 1 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of sea salt
Directions
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Start by toasting the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir them frequently for about 3-5 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Remove them from heat and allow to cool before chopping them into bite-sized pieces.
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While the nuts cool, wash and dice the apples into bite-sized chunks, leaving the skin on for extra nutrition and color. Next, cut the grapes in half lengthwise. Place both fruits in a large mixing bowl and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt until everything is well combined. If you find that the honey is too thick, you can warm it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make it easier to drizzle.
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Pour the cinnamon-honey dressing over the fruit mixture in the bowl and add the toasted, chopped nuts. Gently toss everything together until the fruit is evenly coated with the dressing and the nuts are spread throughout.
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Serve your cinnamon apple grape salad immediately for the crispest texture, or refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before serving if you prefer a chilled treat. To make it visually appealing, garnish with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon and a few whole pecans on top.
Pro Tips for Success with Cinnamon Apple Grape Salad
- Taste Test Fruits: Choose apples and grapes that are ripe and flavorful for the best results.
- Toast Nuts Carefully: Keep a close eye on the nuts while toasting; they can quickly go from perfectly browned to burnt.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice ensures a bright flavor that cuts through the sweetness.
- Chill Before Serving: If you prefer a colder salad, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for a bit; just remember to eat it within two hours for the best texture.
- Experiment with Honey: Depending on your preference, adjust the amount of honey used. You can also substitute agave syrup or maple syrup for different flavors.
Flavor Variations for Cinnamon Apple Grape Salad
- Add Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
- Include Other Nuts: Swap out pecans or walnuts with slivered almonds or pistachios for a different crunch.
- Use Different Fruits: Experiment with different varieties such as pears, cherries, or berries for a unique twist.
- Hearty Greens: Add a bed of spinach or arugula under the fruits for a refreshing salad base.
- Use Yogurt: For a creamier version, fold in some Greek yogurt or whipped cream before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Apple Grape Salad
This delightful salad can shine on its own but pairs wonderfully with various dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or as a side dish for a festive holiday meal. It can also be a light dessert option after a rich dinner, offering a refreshing taste to cleanse the palate. If you like, serve it with a side of yogurt or cottage cheese for added creaminess and protein.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Cinnamon Apple Grape Salad
Cinnamon apple grape salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Note that the apples may start to brown and the salad could become a bit soggy after a while due to the dressing. If you decide to make it in advance, prepare the fruits and dressing separately and combine them right before serving.
Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the texture of the fresh fruits changes once thawed. However, toasted nuts can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to one month.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|———–|———-|
| Calories | 200 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 27g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
FAQ About Cinnamon Apple Grape Salad
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different apple varieties for an exciting flavor combination. Sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp pair beautifully with tart options like Granny Smith for a balanced taste.
How long can this salad stay fresh?
This salad is best enjoyed immediately but can last in the refrigerator for up to two days. If you make it ahead of time, store the dressing and fruit separately to maintain freshness.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time. Dice the fruits and toast the nuts a day earlier, but combine them only shortly before serving to keep the salad crisp.
Is this salad vegan-friendly?
Yes, the cinnamon apple grape salad is naturally vegan as long as you use plant-based sweeteners. You can replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup to keep it vegan-friendly.
Can I add more spices to the dressing?
Of course! While cinnamon is the star, feel free to experiment with nutmeg, ginger, or even a dash of vanilla extract to elevate the flavor profile of the dressing.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon apple grape salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please. With its delightful combination of sweet, crunchy fruits, toasted nuts, and a hint of cinnamon, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a side at dinner, a light dessert, or a refreshing snack, this salad is a delicious way to enjoy fresh produce while adding a touch of warmth to your meal. Give this versatile recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with various flavors and ingredients!
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Cinnamon Apple Grape Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A delightful and refreshing dish combining sweet and crisp flavors of apples and grapes with a touch of warm cinnamon.
Ingredients
- 3 medium apples, diced
- 2 cups red grapes, halved
- 1 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
- While the nuts cool, wash and dice the apples, leaving the skin on. Cut the grapes in half lengthwise. Toss both fruits in a large mixing bowl with lemon juice.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. If honey is thick, warm it slightly in the microwave for easier drizzling.
- Pour the cinnamon-honey dressing over the fruit mixture and add the toasted, chopped nuts. Gently toss to coat the fruit with the dressing.
- Serve immediately for the crispest texture or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving. Garnish with extra cinnamon and whole pecans before serving.
Notes
Choose ripe fruit for best flavor. Toast nuts carefully to avoid burning. Use fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
