why make this recipe
This salad is quick, fresh, and full of crisp flavors. It mixes sweet apples and crunchy carrots. You get a healthy side dish with little work. It works for lunch, a potluck, or a simple dinner.
introduction
Carrot Apple Salad uses few ingredients and tastes bright. The salad keeps well and fits many meals. If you like warm apple snacks, try air-fryer apple fries as another easy apple idea.
how to make Carrot Apple Salad
Wash and prepare the carrots and apples first. Toss them with dressing and add nuts or dried fruit if you like. For a baked apple idea that uses the same fruit, see all-flavors apple pumpkin muffins.
Ingredients :
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 2 apples, cored and chopped (preferably sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup raisins or cranberries (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots and chopped apples.
- If using, add raisins or cranberries and nuts.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the carrot and apple mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish.
how to serve Carrot Apple Salad
Serve it chilled or at room temperature. Put it next to grilled meats, sandwiches, or on a green salad. You can also spoon it on toast or in a wrap for lunch.
how to store Carrot Apple Salad
Keep the salad in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days for best texture. If apples brown, toss again with a small squeeze of lemon before serving.
tips to make Carrot Apple Salad
- Use sweet apples for a nicer balance with the carrots.
- Grate carrots finely so they mix well with apples.
- Taste the dressing and add more lemon or honey as you like.
- Add yogurt for a lighter salad and mayonnaise for a richer one.
variation (if any)
- Add chopped celery for more crunch.
- Swap raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates.
- Use orange juice instead of lemon for a different citrus note.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead?
A: Yes. Mix and store in the fridge. Add nuts just before serving if you want them crunchy.
Q: Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?
A: Yes. Pears or firm peaches work well with carrots.
Q: Is there a vegan option?
A: Use maple syrup and swap yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt or use vegan mayonnaise.
Q: How long do the apples stay crisp in the salad?
A: About a day in the fridge. Lemon juice helps slow browning.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes. Keep dressing proportionate and mix just before serving for best texture.
Carrot Apple Salad
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 large large carrots, grated
- 2 apples, cored and chopped (preferably sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup raisins or cranberries (optional) Optional for added sweetness
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) Optional for crunch
Dressing ingredients
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt or mayonnaise Yogurt for a lighter salad, mayonnaise for a richer one
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup Adjust according to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Freshly squeezed preferred
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and prepare the carrots and apples.
- In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots and chopped apples.
- If using, add raisins or cranberries and nuts.
Make the dressing
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Combine salad
- Pour the dressing over the carrot and apple mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish.