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Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing

Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing
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A fresh and vibrant Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad tossed in a creamy citrus dressing made with yogurt, lemon juice, and honey. This healthy, crunchy salad combines sweet apples, shredded carrots, crunchy nuts, and fresh herbs for a light and delicious dish perfect as a snack, side, or light meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 crisp apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and sliced thinly
  • 2 large fresh carrots, peeled and shredded
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds), toasted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), chopped
  • Optional: 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries

Creamy Citrus Dressing

  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or coconut/almond yogurt for vegan option)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili for spice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fresh Produce: Wash and peel the carrots, then shred them finely using a grater or food processor. Core and slice the apples into thin matchsticks or bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for color and fiber. Toss them together in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Mix the Creamy Citrus Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together plain yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness and tanginess to taste. Add cayenne or fresh chili if using for a spicy kick.
  3. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the creamy citrus dressing over the apple and carrot mixture. Toss gently to evenly coat all pieces and marry the flavors.
  4. Add Crunch and Fresh Herbs: Fold in the toasted chopped nuts and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Add optional raisins or cranberries if desired. Toss lightly to combine.

Notes

  • Choose crisp apples such as Granny Smith or Fuji for the best texture and flavor balance.
  • Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter, natural citrus flavor.
  • Toast nuts lightly before adding to intensify their flavor and crunchiness.
  • Add the dressing just before serving to maintain the salad’s fresh crunch.
  • Adjust honey and lemon juice in the dressing to suit your preferred sweetness and tartness.
  • For nut-free version, substitute nuts with pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
  • Swap yogurt for dairy-free alternatives to make the salad vegan-friendly.
  • Serve within a few hours after dressing to prevent sogginess; store salad and dressing separately if making ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple carrot salad, creamy citrus dressing, healthy salad, crunchy salad, vegan option, gluten free salad, quick salad, nutritious side dish

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/crunchy-apple-carrot-salad-with-creamy-citrus-dressing/