Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Carrot Apple Salad with Cranberries and Mandarin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 15 reviews

A refreshing and sweet-tart Carrot Apple Salad combining crisp matchstick apples and carrots with creamy yogurt and mayo, sweetened cranberries, and juicy mandarin segments. Perfect as a light side dish or healthy snack.

  • Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Fruit and Vegetables

  • 1 red delicious apple
  • 1 granny smith apple
  • 2 cups matchstick carrots (precooked or fresh)
  • 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained

For Dressing and Flavor

  • 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 black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the apples: Cut both the red delicious and granny smith apples into matchstick-sized pieces. Place the cut apples into a bowl.
  2. Prevent browning: Pour the lemon juice over the apple pieces and toss thoroughly to coat them evenly, which will keep the apples from browning.
  3. Let apples soak: Set the bowl aside and let the apples soak in the lemon juice for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavor and maintain freshness.
  4. Combine carrots and onion: In a large mixing bowl, add the matchstick carrots and the finely diced yellow onion.
  5. Add cranberries: Mix the dried sweetened cranberries into the carrots and onion.
  6. Incorporate apples: After soaking, add the lemon-coated apple pieces to the large mixing bowl with the other ingredients.
  7. Add creamy elements: Add the vanilla yogurt and mayonnaise to the bowl to create a smooth dressing for the salad.
  8. Season the salad: Sprinkle the sugar, salt, and black pepper into the mixture to enhance the overall flavor.
  9. Mix thoroughly: Stir all ingredients together well to ensure even distribution of dressing and flavors.
  10. Add mandarins: Gently fold in the drained mandarin segments to the salad, being careful to keep them intact.
  11. Chill: Cover the mixing bowl and refrigerate for at least three hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly.
  12. Serve: After chilling, serve the salad cold and enjoy the refreshing taste.

Notes

  • The lemon juice prevents apple browning and adds a subtle tartness.
  • You can use precut matchstick carrots to save time.
  • For a tangier version, substitute vanilla yogurt with plain Greek yogurt and adjust sugar accordingly.
  • The salad is best served chilled and can be refrigerated up to 24 hours before serving.
  • Optional: garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for added freshness.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://avascooking.com/carrot-apple-salad-with-cranberries-and-mandarin-recipe/