18 Refreshing Green Apple Recipes for Every Occasion

Posted on March 17, 2025

Crisp, tart, and irresistibly juicy—green apples are the unsung heroes of the kitchen, perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to show-stopping seasonal treats. Whether you’re craving a cozy dessert, a refreshing salad, or a savory twist, we’ve rounded up 18 vibrant recipes that celebrate this versatile fruit. Get ready to fall in love with green apples all over again—let’s dive in!

Green Apple and Walnut Salad

Green Apple and Walnut Salad

This crisp, tangy Green Apple and Walnut Salad is a refreshing side that balances sweet, crunchy, and savory flavors in every bite—perfect for brightening up any meal.

  • 2 large green apples, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
  • 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., baby spinach, arugula)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  1. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped walnuts for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Add the mixed greens, sliced green apples, toasted walnuts, and feta cheese to the bowl. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Serve immediately, or chill for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

The contrast of crisp apples, creamy feta, and toasty walnuts makes this salad a standout—ideal for when you want something light but satisfying.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle with a handful of dried cranberries or pumpkin seeds.

Granny Smith Apple Pie

Granny Smith Apple Pie

This classic pie lets the tart-sweet flavor of Granny Smith apples shine, with a buttery crust that flakes apart just right.

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 6-8 tbsp ice water
  • 6 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

  1. Make the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups flour and 1 tsp salt. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter until pea-sized crumbs form. Add ice water 1 tbsp at a time, mixing just until dough comes together. Divide in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.
  2. Prep the filling: Toss apple slices with 3/4 cup sugar, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg. Let sit 15 minutes to release juices.
  3. Assemble: Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Add filling, mounding slightly. Roll out the second disc, lay over apples, and crimp edges. Cut vents, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle with 1 tbsp coarse sugar.
  4. Bake: Place pie on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 45-50 minutes until crust is golden and filling bubbles. Cool 2 hours before slicing.

The lemon juice keeps the apples bright while the double-crust locks in their tangy-sweet jamminess—no soggy bottoms here!

Tip: Freeze cubed butter before making the crust for extra-flaky layers.

Green Apple Smoothie with Spinach

Green Apple Smoothie with Spinach

This vibrant smoothie is a refreshing way to sneak in greens while enjoying the crisp sweetness of apple—perfect for a quick breakfast or post-workout boost.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium green apple, cored and chopped
  • 1 cup fresh baby spinach, packed
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Add the chopped green apple, spinach, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey, and cinnamon to a blender. Blend on high for 30 seconds until smooth.
  2. Add the ice cubes and blend again for another 20–30 seconds until creamy and frosty.
  3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

The tangy yogurt balances the earthy spinach, while the cinnamon adds a cozy warmth that makes this smoothie taste like a healthy apple pie!

Tip: For extra creaminess, freeze the chopped apple ahead of time—it thickens the smoothie without diluting the flavor.

Caramelized Green Apple Tart

Caramelized Green Apple Tart

This caramelized green apple tart is a showstopper with its buttery crust and glossy, cinnamon-kissed apple slices—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 2 medium green apples (like Granny Smith), thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Roll out the puff pastry on a parchment-lined baking sheet and prick all over with a fork. Bake for 12 minutes until lightly golden, then let cool slightly.
  2. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized.
  3. Arrange the apples over the pastry in overlapping rows. Brush the edges with beaten egg and sprinkle turbinado sugar over the entire tart.
  4. Bake for 15–18 minutes until the crust is deep golden and the apples glisten. Let cool 5 minutes before slicing.

The magic here? The tart stays crisp beneath the juicy apples, thanks to pre-baking the crust—no soggy bottoms allowed!

Tip: For extra shine, brush the apples with warmed apricot jam right after baking.

Green Apple and Cinnamon Muffins

Green Apple and Cinnamon Muffins

These tender, spiced muffins pack a punch of tart green apple and cozy cinnamon—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ¼ cup melted unsalted butter, cooled slightly
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup finely diced green apple (about 1 medium)
  • 2 tbsp turbinado sugar (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease lightly.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1 ½ tsp cinnamon, and ½ tsp salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat the egg, then stir in ½ cup milk, ¼ cup melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined (a few lumps are okay). Fold in the diced apple.
  5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each ¾ full. Sprinkle tops with 2 tbsp turbinado sugar.
  6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.

The turbinado sugar adds a delightful crunch, while the juicy apple bits keep every bite moist. These muffins taste even better the next day!

Tip: For extra warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

Green Apple Salsa with Tortilla Chips

Green Apple Salsa with Tortilla Chips

This bright, crunchy salsa is a playful twist on the classic—tart green apples bring a refreshing zing that pairs perfectly with salty tortilla chips.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium green apples, finely diced (about 2 cups)
  • 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the green apples, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, and salt until the honey dissolves.
  3. Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss gently to coat. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  4. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for a crisper texture.

The sweetness of honey balances the jalapeño’s kick, while the apples stay satisfyingly crisp—no soggy salsa here!

Tip: For extra depth, add 1/4 tsp ground cumin to the dressing.

Green Apple and Ginger Detox Juice

Green Apple and Ginger Detox Juice

This refreshing juice is a zesty wake-up call for your senses, blending tart green apples with spicy ginger for a bright, revitalizing sip.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large green apples (such as Granny Smith), cored and roughly chopped
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled
  • 1/2 medium lemon, peeled (seeds removed)
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions:

  1. Add the chopped green apples, ginger, lemon, and cold water to a high-speed blender. Blend on high for 1 minute until completely smooth.
  2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or nut milk bag into a pitcher, pressing with a spoon to extract all the juice. Discard the pulp.
  3. Stir in 1 teaspoon honey (if using) until dissolved. Serve over ice or chilled.

The kick of ginger balances the apple’s tang perfectly, making this juice feel like a mini reset button for your day.

Tip: For extra froth, blend the strained juice again for 10 seconds before serving.

Green Apple and Chicken Stir-Fry

Green Apple and Chicken Stir-Fry

This sweet-tangy stir-fry is a refreshing twist on the classic, with crisp green apples adding a bright crunch to tender chicken and savory sauce.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 large green apple (like Granny Smith), cored and thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink. Transfer to a plate.
  2. Add the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes, then add the apple slices and cook for another 2 minutes until just softened but still crisp.
  4. Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar, tossing everything together for 1–2 minutes until glossy and well-coated.
  5. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately over rice or noodles.

The contrast of juicy apples against the savory-sweet sauce makes this dish irresistibly dynamic—perfect for when you crave something lively yet comforting.

Tip: For extra crunch, toss in a handful of toasted cashews or peanuts just before serving.

Green Apple and Peanut Butter Snacks

Green Apple and Peanut Butter Snacks

These crunchy, creamy bites are the perfect balance of sweet and salty—ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required!

Ingredients:

  • 1 large green apple (like Granny Smith), cored and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
  • ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp roasted salted peanuts, roughly chopped
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Lay the apple slices flat on a plate or serving board.
  2. In a small bowl, stir together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
  3. Spread about 1 tsp of the peanut butter mixture onto each apple slice.
  4. Sprinkle evenly with chopped peanuts and a pinch of cinnamon (about ½ tsp total).

The contrast of crisp apple, velvety peanut butter, and crunchy peanuts makes these irresistible for snack time or a light dessert.

Tip: For extra flair, drizzle with melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

Green Apple and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Green Apple and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

This sweet-savory twist on a classic grilled cheese pairs crisp green apples with sharp cheddar for a sandwich that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices sourdough bread
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 green apple, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1/4 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Spread 1/2 tbsp butter on one side of each bread slice. Flip one slice and layer with 1/4 cup cheddar, apple slices, honey, Dijon mustard, and remaining 1/4 cup cheddar. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, then top with the second bread slice (buttered side out).
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-low. Cook the sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden and the cheese melts.

The honey caramelizes slightly against the hot pan, creating a delicate crunch that plays perfectly with the gooey cheese and tart apple.

Tip: Use a mandoline to slice the apple paper-thin—it ensures even melting and avoids a bulky sandwich.

Green Apple and Cucumber Gazpacho

Green Apple and Cucumber Gazpacho

This refreshing gazpacho is a crisp, no-cook wonder—perfect for hot summer days when you crave something light but packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium green apples (such as Granny Smith), cored and roughly chopped
  • 1 large English cucumber, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
  • 1/2 cup cold water

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine the green apples, cucumber, Greek yogurt, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and mint leaves. Blend until smooth, about 1 minute.
  2. With the blender running, slowly pour in the cold water until the gazpacho reaches your desired consistency (thicker or thinner).
  3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
  4. Serve cold, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a few fresh mint leaves.

The tart apples and cool cucumber create a bright, almost effervescent sip—like summer in a bowl. The mint adds a subtle herbal freshness that makes this gazpacho stand out.

Tip: For an extra-chilled version, freeze a few cucumber slices and use them as edible “ice cubes” in each bowl.

Green Apple and Honey Glazed Pork Chops

Green Apple and Honey Glazed Pork Chops

These Green Apple and Honey Glazed Pork Chops balance sweet and tangy flavors with juicy, tender meat—a weeknight winner that feels fancy without the fuss.

  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
  • 1 large green apple, thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp garlic powder. Sear for 3 minutes per side until golden, then transfer to a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and sliced green apple. Cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened. Whisk together 3 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 tsp dried thyme, then pour over apples.
  3. Return pork chops to the skillet, spooning glaze over them. Transfer to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, until pork reaches 145°F internally.
  4. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving, drizzled with pan sauce and apples.

The glaze caramelizes into a sticky-sweet crust while keeping the pork chops incredibly moist—no dry meat here! Tip: For extra depth, deglaze the skillet with a splash of bourbon before adding the honey mixture.

Green Apple and Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

Green Apple and Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

Start your morning with this bright, crunchy, and protein-packed bowl—it’s like autumn in a dish, but light enough for year-round cravings.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
  • 1 medium green apple, diced
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, toss the diced green apple with 1 tbsp lemon juice to prevent browning.
  2. Add the cooked quinoa, 2 tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Gently stir to combine.
  3. Fold in the chopped walnuts, reserving a few for garnish.
  4. Divide the mixture between two bowls and top each with a dollop of Greek yogurt and the remaining walnuts.

The contrast of tart apple, creamy yogurt, and toasty walnuts makes every bite exciting—plus, it’s ready in under 10 minutes!

Tip: For extra crunch, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes before chopping.

Green Apple and Almond Butter Toast

Green Apple and Almond Butter Toast

This crunchy-sweet toast is the perfect balance of tart apples, creamy almond butter, and a hint of spice—ideal for a quick breakfast or snack that feels indulgent but keeps things simple.

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices whole-grain bread, toasted
  • 3 tbsp almond butter
  • 1/2 medium green apple, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Toast the bread until golden and crisp.
  2. Spread 1 1/2 tbsp almond butter evenly onto each slice.
  3. Arrange the sliced green apple on top, slightly overlapping.
  4. Drizzle 1/2 tsp honey over each slice, then sprinkle evenly with cinnamon and a pinch of flaky sea salt.

The contrast of crisp apples against the velvety almond butter—with just a touch of warmth from cinnamon—makes this toast anything but ordinary.

Tip: For extra crunch, lightly toast the apple slices in a dry skillet for 1–2 minutes before assembling.

Green Apple and Rosemary Roasted Chicken

Green Apple and Rosemary Roasted Chicken

This juicy roasted chicken gets a bright, herby twist with tart green apples and fragrant rosemary—a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for weeknights or small gatherings.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (3–4 lb) whole chicken, patted dry
  • 2 medium green apples, cored and sliced into ½-inch wedges
  • 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1½ tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 small yellow onion, sliced into rings
  • ½ cup chicken broth

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F. In a bowl, toss apple wedges and onion with 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Spread in a single layer in a roasting pan.
  2. Rub chicken all over with remaining 2 tbsp olive oil. Sprinkle with remaining 1 tsp salt, ¾ tsp black pepper, and chopped rosemary, pressing gently to adhere. Drizzle honey over the skin.
  3. Place chicken breast-side up on top of the apples and onions. Pour broth into the pan (avoiding the chicken). Roast for 50–60 minutes, basting halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is crispy.
  4. Let rest 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the softened apples and pan juices.

The rosemary’s earthy notes and the apples’ tangy sweetness create a pan sauce that’s downright magical—no extra gravy needed!

Tip: For extra crisp skin, pat the chicken dry again right before oiling and seasoning.

Green Apple and Avocado Spring Rolls

Green Apple and Avocado Spring Rolls

These fresh, crunchy spring rolls are a playful twist on the classic—packed with crisp green apple, creamy avocado, and a zesty lime-peanut sauce for dipping.

Ingredients:

  • 4 rice paper wrappers (8-inch diameter)
  • 1 medium green apple, julienned
  • 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup warm water (for dipping wrappers)

Instructions:

  1. Whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, honey, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and 2 tbsp water in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper for 10 seconds until pliable but still slightly firm. Lay flat on a damp towel.
  3. Layer apple, avocado, cabbage, and cilantro horizontally across the lower third of the wrapper. Fold sides inward, then roll tightly away from you, sealing the edge.
  4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling. Slice rolls in half diagonally.

The contrast of sweet-tart apple and buttery avocado makes these rolls irresistible, while the peanut sauce adds a savory kick. Perfect for a light lunch or appetizer that’s as pretty as it is tasty!

Tip: Keep ingredients dry—pat apple and avocado slices with a paper towel to prevent soggy wrappers.

Green Apple and Carrot Slaw

Green Apple and Carrot Slaw

This crisp, tangy Green Apple and Carrot Slaw is a refreshing twist on the classic—perfect for picnics or as a bright side to rich dishes.

  • 2 large Granny Smith apples, julienned
  • 3 medium carrots, julienned
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  2. Add the julienned apples and carrots to the bowl, tossing gently to coat evenly with the dressing.
  3. Fold in the chopped parsley until just combined.
  4. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

The crunch of apples and carrots paired with the creamy-sweet dressing makes this slaw irresistibly fresh—no one will guess it comes together in minutes!

Tip: For extra texture, sprinkle with toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds just before serving.

Green Apple and Mint Infused Water

Green Apple and Mint Infused Water

Bright, crisp, and refreshing—this infused water is like a spa day in a glass, with just the right balance of sweet and herbal notes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium green apple, thinly sliced
  • 10 fresh mint leaves
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional)
  • 4 cups cold water
  • 1 cup ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. In a large pitcher, combine the green apple slices, mint leaves, and honey (if using). Gently muddle the mint with a wooden spoon to release its oils.
  2. Pour in the cold water and add the ice cubes. Stir lightly to mix.
  3. Let the water infuse in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours for stronger flavor).
  4. Strain or serve as-is over fresh ice, garnishing with extra mint or apple slices if desired.

The subtle tartness of green apple plays off the mint’s cool freshness, making this a hydrating sip that feels fancier than plain water.

Tip: For a fun twist, swap honey with a splash of lime juice—it amps up the brightness!

Conclusion

With so many delicious ways to enjoy green apples, there’s something here for every craving and occasion! Whether you’re baking, blending, or snacking, these recipes are sure to delight. Give them a try, and let us know which one’s your favorite in the comments. Don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest so others can enjoy these refreshing treats too. Happy cooking!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment