Carrot Apple Salad Recipe

This Carrot Apple Salad recipe is a refreshing and healthy dish made with grated carrots, diced apples, dried cranberries (craisin), and a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch, side dish, or a light snack, this easy-to-make salad provides a nutritious boost of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The combination of crunchy vegetables and sweet fruit is ideal for anyone looking to add more colorful, plant-based meals to their diet. It’s versatile and can be customized with additional fruits or nuts for extra flavor and texture. Make it ahead for meal prep or serve it fresh at your next gathering!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 medium carrots, coarsely grated
• 1 apple, diced
• ¾ cup craisins (dried cranberries)
• ¼ cup purple or sweet onion, finely diced

For the Dressing:

• 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

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
2. Coarsely grate the carrots using a food processor or by hand and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
3. Dice the apple and finely dice the onion, then add both to the bowl along with the craisins.
4. Add the dressing to the salad and stir everything together until well combined.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy! This salad is quick, easy, and full of flavor.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The sweet apples and craisins balance perfectly with the earthy carrots, creating a deliciously unique salad.
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, this salad is a great way to enjoy a healthy dish.
• Versatile: It’s easy to adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

---

Tips

• Grating Carrots: Using a food processor makes grating carrots much quicker and easier, especially for larger batches.
• Customizing Sweetness: Adjust the sugar and lemon juice to your taste to make the dressing sweeter or tangier.
• Chill Before Serving: If you have time, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

---

Variations and Substitutions

• Add Nuts: Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Non-Dairy Option: Swap the mayonnaise for a dairy-free alternative like vegan mayo for a plant-based version.
• Fruit Swap: Experiment with different fruits like pears or grapes instead of apples for a refreshing twist.
• Herbs: Add a pinch of fresh mint or parsley for added freshness and flavor.

---

FAQs

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make it ahead of time and refrigerate it, but add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

Q: Can I use different dried fruits?
A: Absolutely! You can replace craisins with raisins, dried cherries, or even dried apricots for a different taste.

Q: How long will this salad keep in the fridge?
A: The salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days if stored in an airtight container.

---

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve as a Side: This salad pairs well with grilled meats or a hearty soup.
• Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken or tofu for a more filling meal.
• Perfect for Picnics: It’s a great option to bring to a potluck, picnic, or family gathering.