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Carrot Apple Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 9 reviews

A refreshing and easy-to-make Carrot Apple Salad featuring coarsely grated carrots, diced apples, dried cranberries, and a creamy lemon-mayo dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or midday snack, this salad combines sweet, tart, and savory flavors for a delightful eating experience.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 medium carrots (coarsely grated)
  • 1 apple (diced)
  • 3/4 cup craisins (dried cranberries)
  • 1/4 cup purple or sweet onion (finely diced)

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (real mayo or vegenaise)
  • 2 tsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 Tbsp sugar
  • 1/8 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
  • Pinch of black pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 1/2 tablespoon sugar, a pinch of sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
  2. Prepare the vegetables and fruit: Coarsely grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor, then place them into a large mixing bowl. Dice the apple into bite-sized pieces and finely dice the onion, adding both to the bowl along with the craisins.
  3. Toss the salad: When ready to serve, add the prepared dressing to the bowl with the carrot, apple, onion, and dried cranberries. Stir together gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Serve and enjoy: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or plates and enjoy immediately. This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature for a quick, delicious side dish that your family will love.

Notes

  • Use either real mayonnaise or a vegan alternative like vegenaise based on dietary preference.
  • Adjust lemon juice and sugar amounts to balance tartness and sweetness to your taste.
  • For added crunch, consider incorporating some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
  • Grating carrots using a food processor will significantly speed up prep time.