Description
This refreshing Carrot Apple Salad combines crisp matchstick-cut apples and carrots with tangy cranberries and sweet mandarin segments, all tossed in a creamy vanilla yogurt and mayo dressing. It’s a perfect make-ahead side dish that offers a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, ideal for summer picnics or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits and Vegetables
- 1 red delicious apple, cut matchstick style
- 1 granny smith apple, cut matchstick style
- 2 cups matchstick carrots
- 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained
Dressing and Extras
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/3 cup dried sweetened cranberries
- 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Cut both the red delicious and granny smith apples into matchstick-style pieces. Place them in a bowl and toss with the lemon juice to prevent browning and add a zesty flavor. Set aside for 5 minutes to allow the juice to soak in.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the matchstick carrots, finely diced yellow onion, dried sweetened cranberries, and the lemon-tossed apples. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Make Dressing: To the bowl, add the vanilla yogurt, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a creamy and flavorful dressing that coats the salad ingredients thoroughly.
- Finish Salad: Fold in the drained canned mandarin segments carefully to keep them intact. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
- Serve: After chilling, give the salad a gentle stir and serve it as a refreshing side dish at your meal. Enjoy the harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors along with a creamy texture.
Notes
- Cut apples just before mixing to maintain freshness and prevent browning.
- Using both tart granny smith and sweet red delicious apples creates a balanced flavor.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to enhance the taste, but it can be kept overnight.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute yogurt and mayo with plant-based alternatives.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch if desired.
