Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad brings together fresh, sweet, and tart flavors with a delightful crunch in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, packed with vitamins and fiber, and offers a wonderful balance of textures. The apple and cranberry add natural sweetness, while the carrots provide a fresh, crisp base, all tied together by a zesty dressing that brightens the dish.
Ingredients
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3 large carrots, peeled and grated
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2 medium apples, cored and diced (such as Gala or Honeycrisp)
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1/2 cup dried cranberries
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1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
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1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
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Salt and black pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the Dressing:
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In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Combine Salad Ingredients:
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In a large bowl, combine grated carrots, diced apples, dried cranberries, and nuts if using.
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Toss with Dressing:
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Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
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Chill and Serve:
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Serve chilled as a side dish or snack.
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Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4-6
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Chill time: 30 minutes
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Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
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Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in chopped mint or parsley for added freshness.
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Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
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Vegan Option: Use vegan yogurt or mayo and maple syrup as the sweetener.
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Crunchy Extras: Add sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sliced almonds for extra texture.
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Citrus Boost: Substitute lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter flavor.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: Best served cold or at room temperature; no reheating needed.
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and toss the salad up to a day in advance; apples may brown slightly but the lemon juice helps prevent this.
What type of apples are best?
Firm, crisp apples like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best for texture and sweetness.
Can I use fresh cranberries?
Fresh cranberries are very tart; dried cranberries are preferred for sweetness and chewiness.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I omit the nuts?
Yes, nuts are optional and can be omitted for allergies or preferences.
Can I use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, mayonnaise works well, but yogurt adds a tangier flavor and lighter texture.
How do I keep the apples from browning?
Toss apples immediately in lemon juice and keep the salad refrigerated.
Can I add shredded coconut?
Yes, for a tropical twist, add unsweetened shredded coconut.
Can I add protein to make it a meal?
Add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa for extra protein.
How can I make this salad sweeter?
Increase honey or add a bit of orange juice to the dressing.
Conclusion
Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is a delightful, nutritious dish that’s easy to make and packed with vibrant flavors and textures. Perfect for any meal or occasion, this salad offers a sweet, tangy, and crunchy bite that’s sure to please. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, it’s a fresh and tasty way to enjoy wholesome goodness.
Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Category: Snack, Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful dish that blends crisp apples, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy carrots with a tangy, creamy dressing. This easy-to-make salad is perfect as a side or snack, offering a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and fresh flavors with a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
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3 large carrots, peeled and grated
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2 medium apples, cored and diced (Gala or Honeycrisp recommended)
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1/2 cup dried cranberries
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1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
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1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Dressing:
Whisk lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. -
Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix grated carrots, diced apples, dried cranberries, and nuts if using. -
Toss with Dressing:
Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to coat evenly. -
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a refreshing side or snack
Notes
Add chopped fresh mint or parsley for a herbal boost.Sprinkle ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spiced twist.Use vegan yogurt or mayo and maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version.Toss in sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or almonds for extra crunch.Substitute lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter citrus flavor.
