why make this recipe
This salad is quick, fresh, and sweet. It mixes crunchy carrots and apples with juicy mandarins and tart cranberries. It needs little time and few tools. You can serve it as a side or a light snack.
how to make Carrot Apple Salad
Toss the main foods and mix a simple dressing. The steps are fast and clear. You can change the dressing for more sweet or more tang. If you like fruit salads, you can also try a different sweet option like the Snickers Caramel Apple Salad recipe for inspiration.
Ingredients :
2 cups shredded carrots, 2 apples (red and green), sliced, 1 cup dried cranberries, 1 can mandarins, drained, 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
In a large bowl, combine the shredded carrots, sliced apples, dried cranberries, and mandarins. In a separate small bowl, mix the vanilla yogurt and mayonnaise until smooth. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
introduction
This Carrot Apple Salad mixes fresh and sweet flavors. It is easy to make and needs no cooking. The dressing is creamy and mild, so kids like it too. You can make it in ten minutes and eat it right away or chill it first.
how to serve Carrot Apple Salad
Serve cold or slightly chilled. Put it in a bowl for family meals. Spoon it into small cups for a party. It goes well with grilled chicken, sandwiches, or plain rice.
how to store Carrot Apple Salad
Put the salad in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir before serving. If apples turn brown, add a little lemon juice next time to slow browning.
tips to make Carrot Apple Salad
- Use crisp apples so they stay firm.
- Drain mandarins well so the salad is not soggy.
- Mix dressing just before adding if you plan to store it.
- Taste and add salt or pepper little by little.
variation (if any)
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Swap vanilla yogurt for plain yogurt and add a spoon of honey for less sweetness.
- Use raisins instead of dried cranberries if you prefer.
FAQs
Q: Can I use only one type of apple?
A: Yes. Use the apple you like. Mix of sweet and tart is nice but one type works fine.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: You can make it a few hours ahead. Keep it in the fridge in a closed container. Best within the same day.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: Yes. Use dairy-free yogurt and skip mayonnaise or use a dairy-free mayo.
Q: How many does this serve?
A: This makes about 4 small side servings or 2 large side servings.
Q: Can I add fresh herbs?
A: Yes. A little chopped mint or parsley adds fresh flavor.
