Pin it
My apple cranberry carrot salad brings together a mix of sweet, tangy and tasty flavors. It's the go-to fresh dish in my kitchen. The combo of crisp textures and creamy dressing works so well together, really waking up your taste buds.
Why you'll fall for this salad
This salad celebrates freshness in every bite. I love how quick it is to throw together, its bright colors, and good-for-you ingredients. Crunchy apples mixed with cranberries and carrots give it a refreshing snap, while the creamy dressing gently pulls everything together. It fits right in anywhere, from a light lunch to a fancy party spread.
Key ingredients that make it special
I always grab both crisp red and green apples for their sweet-tart balance. A splash of lemon juice keeps them fresh and adds zing. Matchstick carrots bring their bright color and crunch. Finely chopped yellow onion balances everything out. Dried cranberries add chewy sweetness. For the dressing, I blend vanilla yogurt with mayo, then throw in a bit of sugar, salt and pepper. Canned mandarin segments top it off with juicy tang.
How I put it together
First, I slice apples into sticks and toss them with lemon juice right away so they don't brown. In my big bowl, I mix up julienned carrots, thinly sliced onion, and dried cranberries. Then I add my lemony apples and whip up my dressing by combining vanilla yogurt, mayo and seasonings. I gently fold in mandarin segments and let everything chill for at least three hours so the flavors can really mingle.
Tips for salad success
The trick is using super fresh, crisp apples and carrots. I always adjust the sugar and yogurt depending on how sweet I want it. Sometimes I toss in crushed walnuts for extra crunch. A plant-based yogurt works great if you can't do dairy.
Health perks
This salad is my favorite little health booster. The apples and cranberries are packed with antioxidants, carrots help your eyes with their beta-carotene. Mandarins give you vitamin C while yogurt adds calcium and good gut bacteria. It's a tasty treat that's good for you too.
Ways to enjoy it
I often pair this salad with roast chicken or grilled fish. Its beautiful colors make it a hit at potlucks. For a light lunch, I enjoy it by itself or with a few slices of toast.
Storage and prep ahead
You can keep this salad in the fridge for three days in an airtight container. For maximum freshness, I make the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving. Don't try freezing it—that'll ruin the texture of both the fruit and creamy dressing.
Pin it
What sets this salad apart
The magic of this salad comes from how well the flavors and textures work together. Crisp apples, soft cranberries, fresh carrots and creamy dressing create a mix everyone loves. It's a flexible, easy dish that's always a crowd-pleaser no matter when you serve it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long can this salad be kept?
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days. Apples may darken slightly but are still fine to eat.
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Sure, prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. A little resting time actually enhances the flavors.
- → What can I substitute for vanilla yogurt?
Go with plain yogurt, adding a bit of vanilla and sugar, or use vanilla-flavored light cream.
- → Are mandarins necessary?
They're optional but add a nice sweetness and freshness. You can swap them with fresh orange slices instead.
- → How can I stop the apples from browning?
Lemon juice is key. Make sure to coat the apples thoroughly right after slicing and keep the salad chilled.