Crunchy Apple and Carrots Salad
Description:
This refreshing and crunchy salad combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of carrots. It’s perfect as a light snack, a side dish, or even a healthy lunch option. The salad is dressed with a tangy lemon-honey dressing that enhances the crispness of the fruits and veggies, making it irresistibly delicious and nutritious. You can add nuts or seeds for extra texture and protein.
Ingredients:
2 medium apples (preferably crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and thinly sliced or julienned
2 large carrots, peeled and grated or julienned
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries (optional, for sweetness)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon olive oil or mild vegetable oil
Salt to taste (about 1/4 tsp)
Freshly ground black pepper (optional
Fresh parsley or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the ingredients:
Wash and core the apples, then slice them thinly or cut into matchsticks (julienne).
Peel and grate or julienne the carrots.
If using nuts, chop them roughly.
Make the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), olive oil, salt, and a pinch of black pepper until well combined.
Combine the salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, grated carrots, nuts, and dried fruit if using.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Chill and serve:
For best results, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish with fresh parsley or mint leaves if desired.
Enjoy immediately!
This salad tastes best fresh and crunchy.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~120 kcal
Protein 1.5 g
Fat 6 g
Saturated Fat 0.7 g
Carbohydrates 18 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugars 13 g (natural)
Vitamin A 7500 IU (150% DV)
Vitamin C 8 mg (13% DV)
Calcium 40 mg (4% DV)
Iron 0.6 mg (3% DV)
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Time Required:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chilling time (optional): 15-20 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes
Common Questions & Answers:
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and refrigerate it, but apples may brown slightly. To minimize browning, toss apple slices with extra lemon juice before mixing.
Q: Can I use other fruits or vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Pears, celery, or bell peppers work well for extra crunch and flavor variety.
Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey, this salad is completely vegan.
Q: Can I add protein to make it a meal?
A: Yes, adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or cottage cheese can boost protein content for a more filling dish.
Q: How can I make it less sweet?
A: Reduce the amount of honey/maple syrup or skip the
dried fruits.