Name: Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 red apple, cut into matchstick pieces; 1 green apple, cut into matchstick pieces; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cups matchstick carrots; ¼ cup yellow onion, finely diced; ⅓ cup sweetened dried cranberries; ½ cup vanilla yogurt; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this salad for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the apples and cranberries pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing, while the carrots add a satisfying crunch. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days, and it’s always a hit at gatherings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 red apple, cut into matchstick pieces
1 green apple, cut into matchstick pieces
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cups matchstick carrots
¼ cup yellow onion, finely diced
⅓ cup dried cranberries, sweetened
½ cup vanilla yogurt
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained

Directions

I start by slicing both the red and green apples into matchstick pieces. Then, I place them in a bowl, pour the lemon juice over them, and toss well to coat. Letting them sit for about 5 minutes helps prevent browning.
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the matchstick carrots, finely diced yellow onion, and dried cranberries.
After the apples have soaked in the lemon juice, I add them to the mixing bowl with the other ingredients.
Next, I add the vanilla yogurt, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. I stir everything together until well combined and evenly coated.
Finally, I gently fold in the drained mandarin segments to avoid breaking them up too much.
I cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 3 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 6 servings. It takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 3 hours of chilling time to allow the flavors to develop.

Variations

Nuts: I sometimes add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a savory touch.
Dressing: For a lighter version, I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
Fruits: I’ve tried adding pineapple tidbits or orange segments for a tropical twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled and doesn’t require reheating.

FAQs

How can I prevent the apples from browning?

I toss the sliced apples in lemon juice immediately after cutting. The acidity helps prevent oxidation, keeping the apples fresh and vibrant.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What type of apples work best?

I prefer using a combination of red and green apples for a balance of sweetness and tartness. Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are my go-to choices.

Is there a dairy-free version of this salad?

Yes, I substitute the yogurt and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt and vegan mayo to make it dairy-free.

Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?

Certainly. I sometimes add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it more filling and protein-rich.

Conclusion

This Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is a delightful addition to any meal. Its combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy elements, along with the satisfying crunch of fresh ingredients, makes it a favorite in my recipe collection. Whether I’m serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s always a hit.

Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad