This Carrot Apple Salad is a refreshing and crunchy dish made with grated carrots, crisp apples, and a zesty dressing. It’s the perfect light and healthy side dish that’s both delicious and full of nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a fresh accompaniment to your meal, this salad is sure to hit the spot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Carrot Apple Salad is a wonderful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The natural sweetness of the apples and raisins pairs perfectly with the earthy crunch of the carrots, and the simple dressing made with lemon juice, honey, and olive oil brings it all together. It’s a great way to add more fruits and vegetables to your diet, and it’s easy to whip up in just 10 minutes. Plus, this salad is vegan, gluten-free, and full of vitamins, making it a guilt-free option for any meal.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 large carrots, peeled and grated
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2 apples, peeled, cored, and grated
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1/4 cup raisins
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
directions
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Grate the vegetables and fruits: In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots, apples, and raisins.
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Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
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Chill or serve immediately: You can serve the salad immediately or chill it for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: 150 kcal per serving
Variations
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Add nuts: For extra crunch and flavor, add a handful of chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans.
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Citrus twist: Add a teaspoon of orange zest or a splash of orange juice to the dressing for a citrusy kick.
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Spicy touch: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon for added warmth and spice.
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Make it creamier: Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt for a creamier texture.
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Other fruits: Swap apples with pears or add some grapes for an additional burst of sweetness.
storage/reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some of its crunch as it sits, but the flavors will continue to meld together. It’s not recommended to freeze this salad.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the salad ahead of time. It’s best to prepare the dressing and the salad separately and toss them together just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the carrots and apples.
Can I use other types of raisins?
Yes, you can use golden raisins or even dried cranberries for a different flavor.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
Yes, you can substitute the honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener if you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the apples may brown slightly over time, so it’s best to enjoy it within a day or two.
Can I make this salad spicy?
Yes! A pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes can give this salad a spicy twist, balancing out the sweetness of the fruits.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, you can add thinly sliced celery, bell peppers, or even shredded cabbage for added crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
This Carrot Apple Salad is a vibrant, healthy, and delicious option for anyone looking to add more fresh fruits and vegetables to their diet. The combination of sweet apples, crunchy carrots, and a simple, zesty dressing makes it a perfect side dish for any meal. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days when you want something light but satisfying. Enjoy this refreshing salad any time!
Print
Carrot Apple Salad
This Carrot Apple Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy crunch of grated carrots. Tossed in a zesty dressing made from lemon juice, honey, and olive oil, this light salad is perfect as a quick snack or a healthy side dish. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and incredibly easy to prepare in just 10 minutes. Enjoy this crunchy, flavorful salad as a refreshing addition to any meal!
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
2 large carrots, peeled and grated
2 apples, peeled, cored, and grated
1/4 cup raisins
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Grate the vegetables and fruits: In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots, apples, and raisins.
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Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
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Chill or serve immediately: You can serve the salad right away or chill it for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Add a handful of nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch.
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You can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a vegan version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Vegan
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
