Carrot Apple Salad Recipe

Introduction

This refreshing carrot apple salad combines the crisp sweetness of apples with the tangy brightness of lemon juice and juicy mandarin segments. It’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for a light lunch or a colorful side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 red delicious apple
• 1 granny smith apple
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cups matchstick carrots (you can usually buy precut bags at the grocery store)
• 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 1/3 cup dried sweetened cranberries
• 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayo
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut both apples matchstick style and place the pieces in a bowl.
2. Step 2: Pour the lemon juice over the apple pieces in the bowl and toss well to coat all of the apples.
3. Step 3: Set the bowl aside to let the apples soak up the lemon juice for 5 minutes to prevent browning.
4. Step 4: Pour the matchstick carrots into a large mixing bowl.
5. Step 5: Add the diced onion and sweetened dried cranberries to the bowl.
6. Step 6: Once the apples have sat for at least 5 minutes, add them to the mixing bowl.
7. Step 7: Add the vanilla yogurt and mayo to the bowl.
8. Step 8: Add the sugar, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
9. Step 9: Stir all of the ingredients together well.
10. Step 10: Add the mandarins to the bowl and stir them into the salad.
11. Step 11: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least three hours.
12. Step 12: Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use Greek yogurt instead of vanilla yogurt for a tangier flavor and added protein.
• Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• To make it dairy-free, substitute mayo and yogurt with vegan alternatives.
• For extra zest, add a small amount of grated ginger or a pinch of cinnamon.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. This salad is best enjoyed chilled and does not reheat well due to the fresh ingredients.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, preparing it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated and covered until ready to serve.

Can I use fresh mandarins instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh mandarin segments work wonderfully and add a natural sweetness. Just peel and separate the segments before adding them to the salad.

Carrot Apple Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 66 reviews

A refreshing and sweet carrot apple salad combining crisp apples, crunchy carrots, tangy citrus, and creamy yogurt-mayo dressing, perfect as a light side dish or snack.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Fruits and Vegetables

• 1 red delicious apple
• 1 granny smith apple
• 2 cups matchstick carrots (precut bags available)
• 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained

Dressing and Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/3 cup dried sweetened cranberries
• 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare Apples: Cut both apples into matchstick-style pieces and place them in a bowl.
2. Add Lemon Juice: Pour the lemon juice over the apples and toss well to coat all the pieces evenly.
3. Let Apples Soak: Set the bowl aside for 5 minutes to allow apples to soak up the lemon juice and prevent browning.
4. Combine Carrots and Onion: Pour the matchstick carrots into a large mixing bowl, then add the finely diced yellow onion.
5. Add Cranberries: Add the dried sweetened cranberries to the mixing bowl with the carrots and onion.
6. Incorporate Apples: After the apples have soaked for at least 5 minutes, add them to the mixing bowl with the other ingredients.
7. Add Dressing Bases: Add the vanilla yogurt and mayonnaise to the bowl.
8. Season the Mixture: Add sugar, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
9. Mix Salad: Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly to combine flavors and coat all items with the dressing.
10. Add Mandarin Segments: Gently fold the drained mandarin segments into the salad.
11. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least three hours to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
12. Serve: Remove from fridge, stir gently, and serve the salad fresh and cool.

Notes

• Lemon juice helps prevent apple browning and adds a fresh tartness.
• Chilling the salad enhances its flavor and texture.
• You can substitute vanilla yogurt with plain or Greek yogurt for less sugar.
• For a crunchier texture, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
• Adjust sugar according to your sweetness preference or omit if using sweetened cranberries.

Keywords: carrot apple salad, fruit salad, yogurt salad, healthy salad, easy salad recipe, no cook salad