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Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing

Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing

A light, zesty, and irresistible salad combining crisp apples and shredded carrots with a creamy citrus dressing. This refreshing Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad offers a perfect balance of texture and vibrant flavors, making it an ideal healthy side dish or a satisfying light lunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 fresh apples (Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and thinly sliced
  • 2 large carrots, washed, peeled, and shredded or julienned
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill or parsley), finely chopped
  • Optional: 1/4 cup toasted nuts or seeds (toasted almonds or sunflower seeds)

Creamy Citrus Dressing

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon or orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fresh Ingredients: Wash and peel the carrots, then shred or julienne them into thin, even pieces. Core and thinly slice the apples, leaving the skin on for extra nutrients and vibrant color. Finely chop the fresh herbs to ensure they blend well in the salad.
  2. Make the Creamy Citrus Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon or orange juice, a drizzle of honey, and a splash of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness or acidity according to your preference to create a perfectly balanced dressing.
  3. Combine Salad and Dressing: Gently toss the shredded carrots, apple slices, and herbs in a large mixing bowl. Pour the creamy citrus dressing over the salad and toss again until every bite is beautifully coated, but the salad still holds its crunchy texture.
  4. Add Optional Crunchy Toppings: If desired, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top to elevate texture and add a nutty richness that perfectly complements the crisp fruits and veggies.

Notes

  • Use fresh, crisp apples to ensure ultimate crunch and flavor.
  • Shred or slice carrots and apples uniformly for even texture.
  • Taste the dressing before adjusting citrus juice or honey to keep it balanced.
  • Serve the salad immediately after assembling to maintain optimum crunchiness.
  • Keep the dressing refrigerated separately until ready to serve for freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple salad, carrot salad, citrus dressing, healthy salad, crunchy salad, fresh salad, light lunch, side dish