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Carrot Apple Salad

Carrot Apple Salad
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Carrot Apple Salad is a fresh, crunchy, and flavorful salad combining the natural sweetness of apples with the satisfying crunch of carrots. This vibrant and nutritious salad offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, perfect as a quick side dish or a highlight on your lunch plate. It’s easy to prepare, highly customizable, and packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh carrots, peeled and grated or julienned
  • 2 cups crunchy apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and cut into thin matchsticks or grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon light honey or maple syrup

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or cilantro), chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins or cranberries)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
  • Pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the produce: Peel and finely grate the carrots so they blend easily with the other ingredients. Core the apples and cut them into thin matchsticks or grate them to match the carrot’s texture.
  2. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, combine fresh lemon juice with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. This simple dressing enhances flavor while preventing the apples from browning.
  3. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the grated carrots and apples together. Pour the dressing over and mix well to ensure even coating of all pieces.
  4. Add optional extras: Sprinkle chopped nuts and fresh herbs over the salad and gently toss for added flavor, texture, and visual appeal. You may also add dried fruit, shredded cabbage, or a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
  5. Chill before serving: Place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and to chill, making the salad refreshing and crisp.

Notes

  • Use fresh, firm produce to keep the salad crunchy and delicious.
  • Grate carrots and apples to similar sizes for perfect texture balance.
  • Lemon juice is crucial for brightening flavor and preventing apple browning.
  • Toss ingredients gently to maintain crunch and avoid bruising.
  • Prepare the salad ahead and chill to deepen flavors; add nuts right before serving for best crunch.
  • Serving ideas include pairing with sandwiches, grilled proteins, grain bowls, or using as a topping on avocado toast.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days; avoid freezing to preserve texture.
  • This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, no reheating needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: carrot salad, apple salad, healthy salad, vegan salad, quick salad, crunchy salad, fresh salad, gluten free salad

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/carrot-apple-salad/