Refreshing Carrot Apple Salad
This Refreshing Carrot Apple Salad transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant summer salad that’s both delicious and nutritious. The crisp texture of apples and carrots, paired with the juicy burst of mandarins and chewy cranberries, creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures. A creamy yogurt-mayo dressing ties it all together with a tangy-sweet note, making this Carrot Apple Salad ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or a healthy lunch. Its quick prep and make-ahead ease make it a standout among Carrot Salad Recipes for summer entertaining.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 red apple cut into matchstick pieces
- 1 green apple cut into matchstick pieces
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cups matchstick carrots about 2-3 medium carrots
- 1/4 cup finely diced yellow onion
- 1/3 cup sweetened dried cranberries
- 1 cup canned mandarin segments drained
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prep the Apples: Slice 1 red and 1 green apple into matchstick pieces. Toss with 2 tbsp lemon juice in a bowl and let sit for 5 minutes to prevent browning and add tang.
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups matchstick carrots, 1/4 cup diced yellow onion, and 1/3 cup dried cranberries for a crunchy, sweet base.
- Add Apples: Transfer the lemon-coated apples to the bowl with the carrots, onion, and cranberries. Toss gently to mix the flavors.
- Make the Dressing: Add 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Fold in Mandarins: Gently fold in 1 cup drained mandarin segments, being careful not to break them, to add a juicy, citrusy burst to this Carrot Apple Salad.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to meld flavors. Serve chilled as a vibrant summer salad.
Notes
- Select Crisp Produce: Firm apples and fresh carrots ensure a satisfying crunch.
- Fine-Tune Dressing: Adjust sugar or lemon juice to balance sweetness and tang.
- Chill for Best Flavor: Refrigeration enhances the melded flavors of this summer salad.
- Grate Carrots Fresh: Freshly grated carrots elevate texture in Carrot Salad Recipes.
- Handle Mandarins Gently: Fold them in carefully to maintain their shape.