15 Healthy Apple Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

15 Healthy Apple Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Apples are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This makes them a great choice for healthy meals and snacks. You can enjoy a variety of healthy apple recipes that will add flavor to your diet while benefiting your health. Whether you are looking for sweet treats or savory dishes, apples can be a versatile ingredient in your cooking.

A wooden table with a variety of fresh apples, a cutting board, knife, and ingredients like cinnamon and honey

In this article, you’ll explore different ways to incorporate apples into your meals. From breakfast options to snacks and desserts, there are plenty of recipes to choose from that are both nutritious and satisfying.

Grab a few apples, and get ready to discover exciting new dishes that you can easily prepare at home.

1) Apple-Pie Overnight Oats

A bowl of overnight oats with apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and a drizzle of honey, surrounded by fresh apples and a pie crust

Apple-pie overnight oats are a delicious and healthy breakfast option. They combine the warm flavors of apple pie with the convenience of a quick meal. Plus, you can prepare them ahead of time for busy mornings.

To make these oats, you’ll need rolled oats, your choice of milk, chopped apples, cinnamon, and a touch of maple syrup. Chia seeds and walnuts can add a nice texture and extra nutrition too.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
  • 1 apple, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
  • ¼ cup walnuts (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix the rolled oats, milk, and chopped apples.
  2. Stir in the cinnamon, maple syrup, and chia seeds.
  3. Refrigerate overnight.
  4. Before serving, top with walnuts if you like. Enjoy!

2) Brussels Sprouts with Apples and Bacon

A skillet sizzling with Brussels sprouts, apples, and bacon, emitting a savory aroma

This tasty dish combines the crunch of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of apples and the savory flavor of bacon. You can make a great side for any meal with just a few ingredients.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, mix halved Brussels sprouts, diced apples, and chopped bacon. Spread them out on a baking sheet for roasting.

After about 20-25 minutes, your Brussels sprouts should be tender and slightly browned, while the apples soften. Toss everything with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an extra kick.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1 apple, cored and diced
  • 6-8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Mix Brussels sprouts, apple, and bacon in a bowl.
  3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet.
  4. Roast for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Toss with balsamic vinegar before serving.

3) Butternut Squash Apple Soup

A steaming pot of butternut squash apple soup surrounded by fresh apples, squash, and herbs on a rustic wooden table

Butternut squash apple soup is a delicious and healthy choice. The mix of sweet apples and rich squash creates a comforting dish. It’s perfect for chilly days.

Start by sautéing onions in olive oil until they’re soft. Then, add diced butternut squash and apples. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

Pour in broth and let it simmer until everything is tender. Blend the soup until creamy and enjoy a bowl of warmth.

Ingredients

  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 6 cups cubed butternut squash
  • 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the butternut squash and apples.
  4. Add broth and seasonings.
  5. Simmer until squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
  6. Blend until smooth.

4) Carrot-Apple Smoothie

A glass filled with a vibrant orange smoothie, garnished with a slice of apple and a carrot stick

A Carrot-Apple Smoothie is a tasty and healthy option for breakfast or a snack. It combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of carrots. This smoothie is refreshing and packs a nutritional punch.

To make it, you can use fresh carrots and apples. Adding a banana gives it a creamy texture, while a hint of cinnamon adds flavor. Coconut milk can enhance its creaminess and tropical taste.

This smoothie is not only delicious but also loaded with vitamins. It’s an easy way to enjoy fruits and veggies together.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium carrot, chopped
  • 1 apple, cored and chopped
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Ice cubes (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Put all the ingredients into a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth.
  3. Add ice cubes for a colder drink, if desired.
  4. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

5) Instant Pot Applesauce

Fresh apples piled next to an Instant Pot, surrounded by cinnamon sticks and a jar of honey, with steam rising from the cooking apples

Making Instant Pot applesauce is quick and simple. You can enjoy a tasty treat in under 30 minutes. Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples.

Add the apples to your Instant Pot. Pour in a bit of water and sprinkle some cinnamon for flavor. You can also add lemon juice for a nice twist.

Cook the mixture on high pressure for about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, use an immersion blender if you want a smoother texture.

This applesauce makes a great healthy snack or a delicious topping for breakfast items.

Ingredients

  • 6 to 12 large apples
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Peel, core, and slice the apples.
  2. Place the apples in the Instant Pot.
  3. Add water and cinnamon.
  4. Add lemon juice, if using.
  5. Cook on high pressure for 8 to 10 minutes.
  6. Release the pressure and blend to desired consistency.

6) Apple-Cranberry Spinach Salad

A bowl of vibrant green spinach leaves topped with slices of red apple and scattered with plump cranberries, all drizzled with a light vinaigrette

This Apple-Cranberry Spinach Salad is a fresh and tasty choice for any meal. The mix of sweet apples and tangy cranberries adds flavor to your plate.

Using baby spinach as the base gives it a vibrant green color. You can also add nuts, like slivered almonds, for extra crunch, and drizzle with a honey Dijon dressing for added sweetness.

Feel free to top it with goat cheese or grilled chicken for even more flavor. This salad is simple to make and perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups baby spinach
  • 1 cup sliced apples
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds
  • 1/4 cup goat cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup honey Dijon dressing

Cooking Instructions

  1. Rinse the baby spinach and pat dry.
  2. Slice the apples and add them to the spinach.
  3. Sprinkle the dried cranberries and slivered almonds on top.
  4. If using, add the goat cheese.
  5. Drizzle with honey Dijon dressing and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

7) Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices

A rustic wooden table topped with a plate of golden brown baked cinnamon apple slices, surrounded by scattered whole apples and cinnamon sticks

Baked cinnamon apple slices are a delicious and healthy treat. They’re easy to make and perfect for dessert or a snack. Just slice your apples, sprinkle on some cinnamon, and let the oven do the work!

These warm slices are sweet and fragrant. They can be enjoyed alone, or you can serve them over yogurt or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.

For an added twist, try drizzling a little almond butter on top. It’s a simple recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of apples.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium apples (any variety)
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Cooking spray

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Core and slice the apples.
  3. Arrange the slices on a baking dish.
  4. Sprinkle cinnamon over the apple slices.
  5. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, if desired.
  6. Bake for 20 minutes or until tender. Enjoy!

8) Fruit Tartare with Apples

A colorful assortment of diced fruits, including apples, arranged in a decorative pattern on a plate

Fruit tartare with apples is a refreshing and light dish. It combines the crispness of apples with other colorful fruits. This dish is perfect as a snack or a unique dessert.

You can mix different fruits like berries, peaches, or citrus for added flavor. A splash of lemon juice enhances the taste and keeps the apples fresh. Serve it chilled for a delightful experience.

Ingredients

  • 2 apples, diced
  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
  • 1 peach, diced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Dice the apples and peach into small pieces.
  2. In a bowl, combine the diced apples, mixed berries, and peach.
  3. Drizzle with lemon juice and honey.
  4. Toss gently to mix.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  6. Serve garnished with fresh mint leaves.

9) Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A golden grilled cheese sandwich with melted cheese and thin apple slices, surrounded by fresh apples and a sprig of rosemary

The apple grilled cheese sandwich is a delightful twist on the classic recipe. It combines gooey cheese with the sweetness of apples, creating a tasty treat.

To make this sandwich, start with your favorite cheese, such as sharp cheddar, for a rich flavor. Add crisp apple slices for a refreshing crunch.

Butter the outside of the bread before grilling. Cook until golden brown, around 3 minutes on each side at medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).

Enjoy this sandwich as a quick lunch or a comforting snack.

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices of bread
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 slices of sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 apple, thinly sliced

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
  2. Place cheese and apple slices between the unbuttered sides of the bread.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  4. Grill the sandwich for 2-3 minutes on one side.
  5. Flip and grill for an additional 1-2 minutes until both sides are golden and the cheese is melted.

10) Apple and Quinoa Salad

A colorful bowl filled with sliced apples, cooked quinoa, mixed greens, and a sprinkling of nuts and seeds

This Apple and Quinoa Salad is a delicious and healthy dish that you will love. It combines the sweetness of apples with the nutty flavor of quinoa. With fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish.

Start by cooking quinoa according to package directions. Allow it to cool before mixing it with the rest of your ingredients. Chop up your favorite apples and add nuts for crunch.

You can customize this salad by adding ingredients like raisins or cheese. A light dressing made of olive oil and lemon juice brings it all together.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 2 apples, chopped
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
  2. In a pot, bring water or broth to a boil.
  3. Add quinoa, cover, and reduce heat to low.
  4. Cook for 15 minutes, then let it cool.
  5. In a bowl, mix quinoa, apples, walnuts, and cranberries.
  6. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  7. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.

11) Vegan Apple Crisp

A rustic kitchen table with a freshly baked vegan apple crisp surrounded by whole apples, cinnamon sticks, and a sprig of fresh mint

Vegan apple crisp is a delightful treat that’s simple to make. It’s made with fresh apples, which you can slice and layer in a baking dish. For extra flavor, add coconut sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

You’ll create a crispy topping using oats, flour, and vegan butter. This gives the crisp a delicious crunch. Once baked, the apples become tender, and the topping turns golden brown.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for the perfect baking temperature. Bake until the apples are bubbly and the topping is crispy. This dish is perfect for dessert any time of the year.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups apples, sliced
  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup vegan butter

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the apples with coconut sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. Place the apple mixture in a baking dish.
  4. In another bowl, combine oats, flour, and vegan butter until crumbly.
  5. Sprinkle the topping over the apples.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden. Enjoy!

12) Apple Chia Seed Jam

A jar of homemade apple chia seed jam surrounded by fresh apples and chia seeds on a rustic wooden table

Making apple chia seed jam is simple and delicious. This treat is perfect for spreading on toast or adding to yogurt. You’ll love the sweet flavor and healthy ingredients.

To start, you’ll need fresh apples, chia seeds, and a sweetener of your choice. This jam is naturally thickened by chia seeds, so there are no added preservatives.

You can customize the sweetness by adjusting the amount of sweetener you use. This jam is a great alternative to store-bought options.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups apples, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 cup water

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the chopped apples and water.
  2. Cook over medium heat until the apples are soft, about 10 minutes.
  3. Stir in the maple syrup and cinnamon.
  4. Add chia seeds and mix well.
  5. Remove from heat and let cool.
  6. Store in a jar in the refrigerator.

13) Stuffed Baked Apples

A tray of golden brown baked apples surrounded by scattered cinnamon sticks and a dusting of powdered sugar

Stuffed baked apples are a delicious and healthy treat. You can fill them with your favorite ingredients for a tasty dessert. Common fillings include oats, nuts, and spices.

To get started, choose fresh apples that are firm and sweet. You can scoop out the core and fill them with your customized mixture. This can be a mix of oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts like walnuts or pecans.

Bake the stuffed apples in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when they are tender and fragrant.

These baked apples make a lovely dessert for any occasion. You can enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Ingredients:

  • Fresh apples
  • Oats
  • Brown sugar
  • Cinnamon
  • Nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Core the apples.
  3. Mix oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts.
  4. Stuff the apples with the mixture.
  5. Place in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.

14) Gluten-Free Apple Muffins

A rustic kitchen with a wooden table holding a plate of gluten-free apple muffins, surrounded by fresh apples and cinnamon sticks

Gluten-free apple muffins are a tasty treat that you can enjoy any time. They are moist, fluffy, and packed with apple flavor. You can whip them up easily for breakfast or a snack.

To make these muffins, you need ingredients like gluten-free flour, baking powder, and fresh apples. The muffins are great for those avoiding gluten. You can also add spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups gluten-free flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 cups diced apples
  • 1/4 cup apple sauce
  • 1/2 cup milk or dairy-free alternative
  • 2 eggs

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a muffin tin with liners.
  3. In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients.
  4. In another bowl, combine wet ingredients and diced apples.
  5. Stir the wet mix into the dry ingredients.
  6. Fill muffin cups and bake for 20-25 minutes. Enjoy!

15) Apple and Walnut Salad

A vibrant bowl of apple and walnut salad, with fresh green lettuce, crisp red apples, and scattered walnuts, all drizzled with a light vinaigrette

Apple and Walnut Salad is a refreshing dish that combines crunchy apples, nuts, and greens. It makes a perfect side or light meal.

For this salad, choose crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a juicy bite. Adding walnuts gives a satisfying crunch and healthy fats. You can also mix in dried cranberries for some sweetness.

A simple dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard enhances the flavors. This salad is great served on its own or alongside grilled chicken.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups apples, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 5 oz mixed greens (like arugula or spinach)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Whisk until blended.
  2. In a large bowl, mix apples, walnuts, and mixed greens.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.

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