Name: Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 apples, cored and thinly sliced; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

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This vibrant Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is a refreshing combination of crisp apples, tangy cranberries, and fresh carrots, making it the perfect light snack or side dish. With a touch of honey, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s bursting with flavor. Plus, you can top it off with crunchy walnuts or pecans to enhance the texture. Whether you’re looking for a healthy addition to your meal or something to snack on during the day, this salad has you covered!

Ingredients

2 apples, cored and thinly sliced

1 cup shredded carrots

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, shredded carrots, and dried cranberries.

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using).

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat.

If desired, sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans over the top for added crunch.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Variations

If I’m looking to mix things up, I like to play with different ingredients. For a twist, I sometimes add a bit of grated ginger for a spicier kick. You could also swap the dried cranberries for raisins or add some orange zest to give it a citrusy punch. Another variation I enjoy is adding some greens, like spinach or arugula, to make it a heartier salad. Feel free to experiment with these changes to fit your taste!

Storage/Reheating

This Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is best served fresh, but if I have leftovers, I’ll store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The apples may brown slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious. I don’t recommend reheating this salad as it’s meant to be served cold and crisp.

FAQs

How can I prevent the apples from browning?

To prevent the apples from browning, I like to toss them with a little lemon juice as soon as I slice them. This helps preserve their color and keeps the salad looking fresh.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

While dried cranberries are typically used for their sweetness, fresh cranberries can work in a pinch. However, they are quite tart, so I’d recommend adding a little extra honey or maple syrup to balance the flavors.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare this salad ahead of time, but I suggest tossing the apples with lemon juice first to help prevent browning. I usually refrigerate it for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.

Can I add protein to this salad?

For a more filling meal, I sometimes add grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad. If I’m looking for a vegetarian option, adding some crumbled feta or goat cheese works wonderfully!

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, I simply swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing.

Conclusion

This Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is a quick and nutritious option that I love to prepare when I’m craving something light and refreshing. It’s filled with crisp, juicy apples, sweet dried cranberries, and the crunch of carrots and nuts. Whether served on its own or as a side dish, it’s the perfect addition to any meal. Easy to make, healthy, and bursting with flavor—this salad is sure to be a favorite.

Recipe:

Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad

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Print Recipe

This Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of apples, the tartness of cranberries, and the crunch of fresh carrots. With a light honey and lemon dressing and the option of adding walnuts or pecans, this salad is perfect as a healthy snack or side dish. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a delightful choice for any occasion. Perfect for those looking for a light, nutritious meal or a satisfying snack.

Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings