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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 vibrant and refreshing Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad with a luscious, tangy Creamy Citrus Dressing. Perfectly balancing sweet, tart, and creamy flavors with crisp apples, shredded carrots, and a creamy yogurt-based dressing, this salad is quick to prepare, healthy, and versatile as a light lunch or a colorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 medium crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and sliced
  • 2 large fresh carrots, peeled and shredded
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), toasted
  • Optional: 1/2 cup fresh herbs (parsley or mint), chopped

Creamy Citrus Dressing

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon or orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fruits and Vegetables: Wash and peel the carrots, then shred them finely using a grater or food processor. Core the apples and slice them into thin matchsticks or bite-sized chunks. Toss the apple slices with a little lemon juice to prevent browning while you prepare the rest of the salad.
  2. Make the Creamy Citrus Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon or orange juice, honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tang as desired, aiming for a creamy, bright, and slightly sweet dressing.
  3. Combine and Toss: In a large bowl, gently toss the shredded carrots, apple slices, and toasted chopped nuts. Pour the creamy citrus dressing over the salad and mix gently until everything is evenly coated, taking care not to crush the ingredients.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or mint on top if using, to add aroma and visual appeal. Serve immediately for the best crunch or chill briefly to let flavors meld before serving.

Notes

  • Keep apples fresh by tossing slices in lemon juice immediately after cutting to prevent browning and maintain vibrancy.
  • Shred carrots finely for a balanced texture that blends well with the other ingredients.
  • Lightly toast walnuts or pecans to enhance flavor and add warmth to the salad.
  • Chill the salad for 15-30 minutes before serving to improve flavor melding without losing crunch.
  • Adjust sweetness in the dressing by adding extra honey or maple syrup if using tart apples.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple carrot salad, crunchy apple salad, creamy citrus dressing, healthy salad, quick salad, kid-friendly salad, gluten free salad

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