Description
This refreshing Carrot Apple Salad combines crisp matchstick apples and carrots with the sweetness of dried cranberries and mandarin segments. Tossed in a creamy vanilla yogurt and mayo dressing, it’s a perfect make-ahead salad that’s sweet, tangy, and full of vibrant textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits and Vegetables
- 1 red delicious apple, cut matchstick style
- 1 granny smith apple, cut matchstick style
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cups matchstick carrots
- 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained
Other Ingredients
- 1/3 cup dried sweetened cranberries
- 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 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 lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside for 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the matchstick carrots, finely diced yellow onion, dried sweetened cranberries, and the lemon-coated apple pieces. Mix gently to combine all the fresh ingredients evenly.
- Make Dressing: To the bowl, add the vanilla yogurt, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to create a creamy and flavorful dressing that coats all the salad components.
- Finish Salad: Gently fold in the drained canned mandarin segments, ensuring they remain whole to add bursts of citrus sweetness throughout the salad.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for 3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the salad to chill for a refreshing taste.
- Serve: After chilling, give the salad a final gentle toss and serve it chilled. Enjoy the crisp, sweet, and tangy flavors of this delightful Carrot Apple Salad!
Notes
- Using lemon juice on the apples prevents browning and keeps the salad looking fresh.
- Refrigerating the salad for 3 hours helps the flavors meld and enhances the overall taste.
- You can substitute vanilla yogurt with Greek yogurt for a thicker texture and added protein.
- Adjust sugar quantity based on the sweetness of your yogurt and preference.
- For a vegan version, replace mayo and yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
