Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is a crisp and colorful mix perfect for a light snack or a side dish. Combining sweet apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, it’s a delightful burst of fresh flavors that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh apples, diced (about 2 medium Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (or 2 medium carrots, shredded)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash the apples and carrots thoroughly. Core and dice the apples into bite-sized pieces. Peel and shred the carrots if using whole ones.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine diced apples, shredded carrots, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts. Toss gently to mix.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice with salt and pepper. Add honey for extra sweetness if desired.
- Step 4: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Step 5: Chill in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Try substituting walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
- Add a handful of fresh herbs like mint or parsley for a refreshing twist.
- For extra sweetness, drizzle a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup into the dressing.
- Use a mix of apple varieties to balance tartness and sweetness.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the apples from browning, toss them with lemon juice just before combining. The salad is best enjoyed chilled; if needed, stir gently before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. However, add the walnuts just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are quite tart and firm, so if using them, consider cooking or sweetening slightly to balance the flavor.
PrintRefreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad Recipe
A light and refreshing apple cranberry carrot salad combining crisp apples, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and shredded carrots, all dressed in a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect as a healthy snack or a vibrant side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups fresh apples, diced (about 2 medium Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (or 2 medium carrots, shredded)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: honey for extra sweetness
Instructions
- Prepare produce: Wash the apples and carrots thoroughly. Core and dice the apples into bite-sized pieces. Peel and shred the carrots if using whole ones to ensure they mix easily in the salad.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add the diced apples, shredded carrots, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts. Toss them gently to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice with salt and pepper until well blended. Add honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing.
- Dress the salad: Pour the lemon dressing over the salad mixture. Toss thoroughly until all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and serve: Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and chill for 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving. Serve cold for the best refreshing taste.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for tartness or Honeycrisp apples for natural sweetness.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds if preferred.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste in the dressing.
- For a vegan option, omit honey or use maple syrup as a sweetener.
- This salad is best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Keywords: apple cranberry salad, carrot salad, healthy salad recipe, no-cook salad, refreshing summer salad, vegetarian salad
