Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad
Description
This vibrant and refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of apples and carrots with the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful balance of flavors. It’s packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, making it a healthy addition to any meal. The crunch of fresh apples and carrots, combined with the chewiness of dried cranberries, makes it a perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, or light lunches.
Ingredients
Salad
2 large apples, cored and julienned (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work well)
1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
½ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for freshness)
Dressing
2 tablespoons lemon juice (prevents apple browning and adds tang)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon cinnamon (adds warmth and enhances flavors)
¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Wash the apples and carrots thoroughly.
Cut the apples into thin matchsticks (julienne style).
Grate or shred the carrots using a box grater or food processor.
If using walnuts or pecans, chop them into small pieces.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), olive oil, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the apples, carrots, and cranberries.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Sprinkle with chopped nuts and parsley, if using.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately or let it sit for 10–15 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Serving Size: 1 cup (makes about 4 servings)
Calories: 180
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 22g
Protein: 1.5g
Fat: 7g
Vitamin A: 80% DV (from carrots)
Vitamin C: 20% DV (from apples and lemon juice)
Iron: 4% DV
Calcium: 3% DV
Preparation & Storage Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10–15 minutes
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The apples may brown slightly, but the lemon juice helps prevent this.
Q&A Section
1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes! If using fresh cranberries, chop them finely and add a bit more honey or maple syrup to balance the tartness.
2. What’s the best apple variety for this salad?
Crisp and slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work best. Avoid softer apples like Red Delicious, as they may become mushy.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best consumed within 24 hours for peak freshness. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.
4. Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version.
5. Can I add other ingredients for extra flavor?
Definitely! Try adding chopped celery, pomegranate seeds, or sunflower se
eds for more texture and variety.