Carrot Apple Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love Carrot Apple Salad Recipe

This salad is incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The combination of crunchy carrots and juicy apples creates a refreshing texture, while the creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully. It’s family-friendly, budget-conscious, and versatile enough to pair with everything from grilled meats to sandwiches. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making entertaining simple and stress-free.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 medium carrots, coarsely grated
1 apple, diced
¾ cup craisins (dried cranberries)
¼ cup purple or sweet onion, finely diced
½ cup mayonnaise (real mayo or vegenaise)
2 teaspoons lemon juice
½ tablespoon sugar
⅛ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
Pinch of freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.

2. Coarsely grate the carrots and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Dice the apple and finely dice the onion. Add them to the bowl along with the dried cranberries.

3. Add the prepared dressing to the salad mixture just before serving. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve and enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes.
There is no cooking time required, making it a perfect quick-prep dish.

Variations

For a lighter version, substitute part or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Swap the dried cranberries for raisins or chopped dried apricots.
Include a handful of shredded cabbage for a more coleslaw-style salad.
For added sweetness, use a crisp, sweet apple like Fuji or Honeycrisp. For a tangier flavor, try Granny Smith.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as some liquid may accumulate at the bottom.

This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. If making ahead, consider adding the dressing shortly before serving to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Mix with the dressing shortly before serving for optimal freshness.

What type of apple works best?

Crisp apples such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work well because they hold their texture and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

 

Yes, pre-shredded carrots can save time, though freshly grated carrots often have better texture and flavor.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, simply use a plant-based mayonnaise alternative to keep the recipe dairy-free.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?

Tossing the diced apples in lemon juice before mixing them into the salad helps prevent browning.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely. You can reduce or omit the sugar depending on your taste preference, especially if your apple is naturally sweet.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, adding grilled chicken, sunflower seeds, or chopped nuts can make it more filling.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Always check packaged products to be certain.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the mayonnaise and fresh produce will lose their texture when thawed.

What dishes pair well with this salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread.

Conclusion

This carrot apple salad is proof that simple ingredients can create vibrant, satisfying flavors. With its crisp texture, creamy dressing, and sweet-tangy balance, it’s a dependable recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Whether served at a family dinner or a potluck gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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