Savor the Summer: Michigan Apple Summer Salads, Sides & Sips
We often think about apples in savory fall recipes, but Michigan Apples also make a nutritious and flavorful addition to summer salads and side dishes, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, they promote digestion, boost immunity, and support overall health all year round. When the temperatures rise, apples’ natural juiciness adds hydration to light, refreshing dishes, while their crisp texture enhances everything from leafy greens to grain-based sides. Grown in Michigan’s rich soil and stored in a climate-controlled atmosphere, Michigan Apples deliver peak freshness and flavor, making them a delicious and wholesome choice for warm-weather meals. Here are some tasty ways to add them to nutrient-rich summer salads, side dishes, and sips this season:
Sweet, Tangy, Crunchy – Sensational Apple Salads
Apple Brussels Salad with Goat Cheese Fritters – Crisp Michigan Apples, shaved Brussels sprouts, and tangy goat cheese fritters create the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess in this fresh, flavorful salad.
Apple & Arugula Salad – Top baby arugula with sliced Michigan Apples, crumbled goat cheese, toasted walnuts, and a prepared lemon vinaigrette.
Michigan Apples & Chickpea Salad – Crunchy, fresh, and packed with flavor, this Michigan Apples and Chickpea Salad is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice. With crispy chickpeas, crisp Michigan Apples, and a tangy yogurt dressing, it’s a refreshing, plant-forward, and satisfying dish for any summer meal or get-together!
Apple & Watermelon Salad – Toss cubed watermelon, Michigan Apple slices, fresh mint, and feta cheese; drizzle with a balsamic glaze.
Michigan Apple Chicken Pasta Salad – Michigan Apples add a sweet, cool crunch to this refreshing chicken pasta salad. Featuring chicken, crisp apples, and pasta tossed in a tangy dressing. Perfect for a summer meal or party.
Apple-Powered Summer Sides & Sips
Apple Hummus – Looking for a fresh take on hummus? This apple Hummus recipe blends the creamy richness of traditional hummus with the natural sweetness of Michigan Apples and applesauce. This recipe makes a perfect summer appetizer for your deck party! Pair with pita chips and fresh veggies.
Apple Slaw – Blend a prepared coleslaw mix with matchstick sliced Michigan Apples, shredded carrots, and a yogurt-based poppy seed dressing.
Michigan Apple Marguerita Mocktail – Looking for a crisp, refreshing mocktail? This Michigan Apple Margarita Mocktail blends the sweet, tart goodness of Michigan Apples with zesty lime and a touch of spice for the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply want a delicious alcohol-free beverage, this mocktail is a must-try.
Apple & Herb Couscous – Grab some fresh herbs from your garden (parsley and mint work well), and combine with diced Michigan Apples, sliced almonds, prepared couscous and a lemon vinaigrette dressing. So refreshing!
Apple Cinnamon Energy Bites – Heading out on a summer adventure? Don’t forget to pack these tasty, kid-approved apple cinnamon bites! Loaded with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, they’ll keep you energized and satisfied while you’re on a road trip, hiking, or biking.
Michigan Apple and Almond Green Smoothie – Sunny days call for smart sips! Stay energized and hydrated with our Michigan Apple & Almond Green Smoothie. Packed with the crisp goodness of local apples and the power of almonds, it’s a refreshing way to fuel your day — and yes, it tastes as good as it sounds!
Michigan Apple Hard Ciders – There’s nothing quite like cracking open a cold can of hard apple cider on a warm summer day. With its crisp, refreshing flavor and just the right amount of kick, it’s the perfect companion for BBQs, bonfires, and sunset gazing. Locally crafted and full of orchard-fresh goodness!
Find More Summertime Apple Recipes!
Find all kinds of apple-based, family-friendly recipes to enjoy this summer with Michigan Apples.
