First Step: Prepare Apples Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Core and cube them evenly to ensure uniform texture.

Second Step: Slice Celery and Prepare Other Add-ins Thinly slice 2 ribs of celery to add crunch. Halve 1 cup of seedless grapes. Chop 1/2 cup of pecans or your choice of nuts. Measure out dried cranberries if using.

Third Step: Prepare the Dressing In a large bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup mayonnaise and 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar until smooth. Adjust sugar to preference if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet dressing.

Fourth Step: Combine Ingredients Toss the cubed apples immediately with the juice of 1 lemon to prevent browning. Add apples, celery, grapes, nuts, and dried cranberries into the bowl with dressing. Gently stir to coat all ingredients evenly.

Fifth Step: Chill and Meld Flavors Cover the bowl and refrigerate the apple salad for at least 30 minutes up to 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to thicken slightly, enhancing taste and texture.

Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light snack. This apple salad pairs beautifully with protein-rich mains, including a savory steak and shrimp stir fry or on its own. For dietary variations, substitute in plant-based or light dressings as needed.