Crunchy Apple Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing
There’s something inherently comforting about a crunchy salad, especially when it’s bursting with vibrant colors and flavors. I still remember the first time I laid eyes on my grandmother’s table during a sunny afternoon gathering. She would prepare a beautiful salad filled with freshly grated carrots, crisp apples, and generous handfuls of nuts, drizzled with a creamy dressing that danced between tart and sweet. Each bite seemed to hold the essence of summer even on the cloudiest days.
Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe that embodies those feelings of nostalgia and warmth—my Crunchy Apple Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a potluck picnic, this salad is not just a side dish, but a vibrant centerpiece that beckons everyone to the table. Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings.
- No-bake delight: No oven required! Just chop, mix, and enjoy.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet apples, crunchy carrots, and nutty goodness.
- Healthy indulgence: A wholesome blend of fruits and veggies, making it both nourishing and satisfying.
- Crowd-pleasing: Ideal for parties, this dish is bright, flavorful, and visually appealing, ensuring it’s the star of the spread.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Crunchy Apple Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing
- 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and diced
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Make It Together
- Start by preparing the vegetables and fruits. Peel and grate the carrots into a large mixing bowl.
- Core the apples and chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. Immediately add them to the bowl with the grated carrots to prevent browning.
- Shred the red cabbage finely and add it to the bowl, along with the raisins or dried cranberries, chopped walnuts or pecans, and fresh parsley.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the creamy citrus dressing. Combine the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or honey if needed.
- If time allows, let the salad sit for about 15 minutes in the refrigerator before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional chopped nuts or parsley on top if desired.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Zesty Citrus Explosion: Add a pinch of lime zest to the dressing for a zingy twist!
- Creamy Avocado Addition: Toss in diced avocado for an ultra-creamy, rich texture.
- Dried Fruit Medley: Swap out the raisins for dried apricots or figs for a different sweet kick.
- Spiced Pumpkin Seeds: Replace the nuts with flavored pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch and added warmth.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh and crisp.
- Ingredient Swaps: If you’re vegan or dairy-free, substitute the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with your favorite plant-based alternatives.
- Storage Suggestions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will actually deepen and meld beautifully!
- Grating Tricks: For easier grating, you can use a food processor if you have one! It saves time and keeps things consistent.
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 230
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugars: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 120mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This salad keeps well, but add the dressing just before serving to maintain that delightful crunch.
Can I use different ingredients?
Of course! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or switch up the fruits based on what’s in season.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The salad may soften slightly, but it will still be tasty!
How long does it last?
This salad can be kept for about 3 days in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep!
Wrapping It Up
In a world where quick, wholesome meals are cherished, this Crunchy Apple Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing shines as a go-to favorite. It’s not just a salad; it’s a blend of memories and joy, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny picnic or as part of a simple dinner at home, this recipe is bound to evoke feelings of warmth and connection.
Save this Crunchy Apple Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking!
Crunchy Apple Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and diced
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Creamy Citrus Dressing
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by preparing the vegetables and fruits. Peel and grate the carrots into a large mixing bowl.
- Core the apples and chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. Immediately add them to the bowl with the grated carrots to prevent browning.
- Shred the red cabbage finely and add it to the bowl, along with the raisins or dried cranberries, chopped walnuts or pecans, and fresh parsley.
Dressing
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the creamy citrus dressing. Combine the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Combine and Serve
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or honey if needed.
- If time allows, let the salad sit for about 15 minutes in the refrigerator before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional chopped nuts or parsley on top if desired.
