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Thanksgiving Creamy Grape and Apple Salad with Cranberries and Pecans — Sweet, Tangy & Festively Delicious

Thanksgiving is a time for dishes that feel cozy, comforting, and full of joy — and this Creamy Grape and Apple Salad with Cranberries and Pecans brings all of that to the table in one bowl. 🍏🍇 It’s crisp, creamy, and slightly tangy, combining fresh grapes and apples with dried cranberries and crunchy pecans for the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Unlike heavy desserts, this salad is refreshing yet indulgent — a delightful side dish that balances savory main courses like roast turkey or chicken. The creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt and a touch of honey adds a luscious finish without being overly sweet. It’s the kind of salad that looks as good as it tastes — colorful, festive, and always the first bowl to disappear at the holiday table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
chill time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍇 For the Salad
  • 2 cups red grapes halved
  • 2 cups green grapes halved
  • 2 medium apples diced (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work beautifully)
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup pecans roughly chopped and lightly toasted
🍯 For the Creamy Dressing
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt plain or vanilla
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon optional, for warmth
  • Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula or large spoon

Method
 

Step 1 – Prepare the Fruit
  1. Wash the grapes and cut them in half. Core and dice the apples into bite-sized cubes. To prevent browning, toss the apples with a few drops of lemon juice.
Step 2 – Toast the Pecans (Optional)
  1. For deeper flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat and let them cool completely.
Step 3 – Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity to your liking.
Step 4 – Combine the Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the red grapes, green grapes, diced apples, cranberries, and pecans. Pour the creamy dressing over the fruit mixture.
Step 5 – Toss Gently
  1. Using a spatula or large spoon, fold everything together until the fruit is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
Step 6 – Chill & Serve
  1. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to thicken slightly.
  2. When ready to serve, give it one gentle toss and garnish with a sprinkle of extra cranberries and pecans on top.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended — the creamy dressing and fruit don’t freeze well.
Serving Tip: Stir gently before serving again, as some separation may occur after chilling.
💡 Pro Tip: Add the pecans just before serving to keep their crunch.
🥄 Variations
Yogurt Only: Skip mayonnaise and use ¾ cup Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for pecans.
Extra Fruity: Add pineapple chunks, strawberries, or blueberries for more color.
Cinnamon Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a warm Thanksgiving flavor.
Vegan Version: Use vegan yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey and mayonnaise.
Holiday Upgrade: Add pomegranate arils for a jewel-like festive look.
Sweet Crunch: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or granola on top before serving.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use only one type of grape?
Yes — red or green grapes both work beautifully; red grapes add more color and sweetness.
2. What apples are best for this salad?
Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala — they’re crisp, juicy, and don’t brown too quickly.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare up to a day in advance; just add pecans right before serving.
4. How can I keep the apples from browning?
Toss them in a little lemon juice right after chopping.
5. Can I skip yogurt?
Yes — use sour cream for a richer flavor, or just mayonnaise for a classic old-fashioned version.
6. Is this salad sweet or savory?
It’s lightly sweet and creamy, with a hint of tang — perfect for balancing savory Thanksgiving dishes.
7. Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds add a similar crunch and flavor.
8. Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise — it still turns out creamy and delicious.
9. Can I add cheese?
Crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a salty contrast to the sweetness.
10. How long can it sit out at room temperature?
No more than 2 hours — after that, return it to the fridge to keep it fresh.
🏁 Conclusion
This Thanksgiving Creamy Grape and Apple Salad with Cranberries and Pecans is the perfect harmony of fresh fruit, crunchy nuts, and luscious dressing. 🍇🍏✨
It’s a wonderful side dish that brings both brightness and balance to rich holiday meals. The grapes and apples stay crisp, the cranberries add tangy sweetness, and the toasted pecans give that irresistible crunch — all coated in a creamy, honey-kissed dressing that ties everything together.
Whether you serve it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family dinner, this salad will steal the spotlight and remind everyone that simple ingredients can create something truly special.