Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad – A Colorful Delight Recipe
Introduction
This Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is a vibrant and healthy mix perfect for any season. With crisp apples, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that brighten up your meal.
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 the diced apples, shredded carrots, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts. Toss gently to mix.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the 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 to enhance the flavors.
Tips & Variations
- For added creaminess, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving.
- Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if preferred, for a different nutty flavor.
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples to add complexity to the salad’s taste.
- Add fresh herbs like mint or parsley for a refreshing twist.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toss lightly before serving to redistribute the dressing, as some liquid may settle. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be served chilled for a refreshing bite.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of dried?
Frozen cranberries will add moisture and make the salad wetter, so dried cranberries are preferred for the right texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain well before adding.
How can I keep the apples from browning?
The lemon juice in the dressing helps prevent the apples from browning. Make sure to toss the apples in the dressing soon after cutting for best results.
PrintRefreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad – A Colorful Delight Recipe
This Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is a vibrant, healthy, and easy-to-make dish perfect for a light snack or a colorful side. Combining crisp apples, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and fresh shredded carrots, tossed in a zesty lemon dressing, this salad offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Its simplicity makes it ideal for quick meal prep, picnics, or as a refreshing addition to any meal.
- 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 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
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
Instructions
- Prepare the fruits and vegetables: Wash the apples and carrots thoroughly. Core and dice the apples into bite-sized pieces. Peel and shred the carrots if using whole ones.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the diced apples, shredded carrots, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts. Toss gently to combine evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice with salt and pepper. Add honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the lemon dressing.
- Chill and serve: Place the salad in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the taste. Serve chilled as a refreshing side or snack.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- To reduce sugar content, opt for unsweetened dried cranberries.
- This salad tastes best when served fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.
- For extra creaminess, try mixing in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of your favorite vinaigrette.
Keywords: apple salad, cranberry salad, carrot salad, healthy salad, no-cook salad, vegetarian salad, fresh fruit salad, walnut salad
