Carrot Apple Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is both nutritious and delicious, offering a blend of textures with the crispiness of apples and carrots alongside the juiciness of mandarins. The addition of dried cranberries enhances the flavor with a subtle tartness, while the creamy dressing ties everything together in a delightful way. Easy to prepare and chilled to perfection, it’s a must-have for any gathering or as a quick side dish to complement your meals.

Ingredients

• 1 Granny Smith apple, cut into matchsticks

• 1 Red Delicious apple, cut into matchsticks

• 2 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 cups matchstick cut carrots

• ½ cup finely diced onion

• ½ cup dried sweetened cranberries

• ½ cup vanilla yogurt

• ¼ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoon sugar

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon pepper

• ½ cup mandarin orange segments (canned or fresh)

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

Directions

1. Cut the Granny Smith and Red Delicious apples into matchsticks. Place them in a large bowl and pour the lemon juice over them. Toss to coat and set aside for 5 minutes to prevent browning.

2. In the same bowl, add the matchstick cut carrots, finely diced onion, and dried cranberries. Mix well.

3. Add the apples to the mixture, followed by the vanilla yogurt and mayonnaise. Add sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

4. Gently fold in the mandarin orange segments.

5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Stir the salad again before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings

• Preparation time: 20 minutes

• Chilling time: 3 hours

Variations

• Add nuts such as chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.

• For a dairy-free version, substitute the yogurt and mayo with non-dairy alternatives like almond yogurt and vegan mayo.

• Replace the mandarins with fresh pineapple or pears for a different twist on the fruit combination.

Storage/Reheating

• This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• It is best served chilled and should not be reheated due to the delicate nature of the fruit and yogurt dressing.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, you can use any apple variety that you prefer, but a balance between sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Red Delicious, works best for flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors develop even more after a few hours in the fridge. Make it a day ahead for best results.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I substitute the mayo with something else?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative to make this recipe lighter or dairy-free.

Can I freeze this salad?

It's not recommended to freeze this salad as the fruit will lose its texture when thawed.

What kind of dressing is used in this salad?

The dressing is made from a combination of vanilla yogurt and mayonnaise, creating a creamy and slightly sweet base for the salad.

How long will this salad last in the fridge?

This salad stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I add more fruits to the salad?

Certainly! You can add fruits like pears, grapes, or even sliced bananas to enhance the flavor and texture.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this salad without the cranberries?

Yes, you can omit the dried cranberries if you prefer a sweeter or more savory salad.

Conclusion

Carrot Apple Salad is a refreshing, colorful dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious. The mix of textures and flavors makes it a great side dish for any meal or a light lunch on its own. With easy prep and a short chill time, it’s an ideal addition to any table, especially during the warmer months. Try it today and enjoy the balance of sweet, tart, and creamy goodness!