Carrot Apple Salad Recipe – Easy & Healthy

introduction

Carrot Apple Salad is a refreshing dish that combines the crispness of apples and carrots with a hint of sweetness from cranberries and mandarins. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal or a light snack on its own. The blend of flavors and textures makes this salad both nutritious and delicious.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for anyone in the kitchen. It provides a great way to enjoy the health benefits of fruits and vegetables. Plus, it’s a colorful addition to your table that everyone will love!

How to make Carrot Apple Salad

Ingredients :

1 red delicious apple
1 Granny Smith apple
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cups matchstick carrots (you can usually buy pre-cut bags at the grocery store)
1/4 cup yellow onion, finely diced
1/3 cup dried sweetened cranberries
1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
1/4 cup mayo
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained

Directions :

Cut both apples matchstick style and place the pieces in a bowl.
Pour the lemon juice over the apple pieces in the bowl and toss well to coat all of the apples.
Set the bowl aside to let the apples soak up the lemon juice for 5 minutes; this will prevent browning.
Pour the matchstick carrots into a large mixing bowl.
Add the diced onion and sweetened dried cranberries to the bowl.
Once the apples have sat for at least 5 minutes, add them to the mixing bowl.
Add the vanilla yogurt and mayo to the bowl.
Add the sugar, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
Stir all of the ingredients together well.
Add the mandarins to the bowl and stir them into the salad.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least three hours.
Serve and enjoy!

How to serve Carrot Apple Salad

You can serve Carrot Apple Salad chilled as a side dish at lunch or dinner. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also enjoy it as a healthy snack or light meal on its own!

How to Store Carrot Apple Salad

To store Carrot Apple Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again.

Tips to make Carrot Apple Salad

To keep the apples crunchy, do not let them soak in lemon juice for too long.
Feel free to adjust the amount of yogurt and mayo to your taste.
For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of walnuts.

variations

You can add chopped nuts for a crunchier texture or substitute the mandarin segments with diced pineapple for a tropical twist. You might also experiment with different types of dried fruits like raisins or cherries.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best to prepare it a few hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! Any apples will work well in this salad. Just pick ones you enjoy eating.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, you can substitute the yogurt and mayo with dairy-free alternatives like almond yogurt and vegan mayo.