If you’re looking for a refreshing and crunchy salad that’s quick to prepare, this Carrot Apple Salad is a perfect choice. With crisp apples and sweet carrots, it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can accompany any meal or stand alone as a healthy snack. Plus, it comes together in just minutes, making it ideal for busy days when you still want something nutritious and tasty.
Steps
- Mix together in a small bowl: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 1/2 tablespoon sugar, a pinch of salt, and some freshly ground black pepper.
- Use a food processor to coarsely grate four medium carrots and place them into a large mixing bowl. Dice one apple and finely chop 1/4 cup of purple or sweet onion, then add these along with 3/4 cup of dried cranberries to the bowl.
- Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and mix well to combine.
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized carrots, coarsely grated
- 1 apple, chopped
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries (craisins)
- 1/4 cup finely diced purple or sweet onion
- 1/2 cup real mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- A pinch of freshly ground black pepper
FAQ
- Can I use regular carrots instead of organic ones?
- Yes, you can use regular carrots, but organic carrots are often sweeter and can enhance the overall flavor of the salad.
- Is it necessary to use a food processor for this recipe?
- No, it’s not necessary, but using a food processor with a grater attachment can make the preparation much quicker, allowing you to have the salad ready in under 10 minutes.
- Can I substitute the craisins with another ingredient?
- Yes, you can substitute craisins with other dried fruits like raisins or chopped dried apricots, depending on your personal preference.
- What type of onion should I use in this salad?
- You can use purple, yellow, or sweet onions, finely diced, based on your taste preference for this salad.
- How can I make the dressing healthier?
- To make the dressing healthier, you can replace the mayonnaise with a low-fat or Greek yogurt alternative while adjusting the other ingredients to taste.
Tips
- Opt for organic carrots if possible, as they tend to be sweeter and can enhance the overall flavor of the salad.
- Use a food processor with a grater attachment to save time when grating the carrots, making the preparation process quicker and easier.
- Prepare the salad dressing in advance and add it to the salad just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.
- Consider experimenting with homegrown produce for even fresher flavors, especially if you have access to a garden.
Equipment
- Food Processor with Grater Attachment – Useful for quickly grating carrots.
- Vidalia Chop Wizard – Handy for dicing apples and onions efficiently.
