Carrot Apple Salad

Carrot apple salad is one of those simple, timeless recipes that never goes out of style. It’s crisp, lightly sweet, refreshing, and surprisingly satisfying for something that comes together in minutes. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, this salad delivers bright flavor, great texture, and real nutritional value—no heavy dressing or complicated prep required.

This is the kind of dish that works just as well as a light lunch, a refreshing side, or a make-ahead salad for busy weeks. It’s also incredibly adaptable, which explains why versions of carrot apple salad appear in kitchens across cultures and generations.

Why Carrot Apple Salad Is a Classic

There’s a reason this salad has stayed popular for decades:

• Naturally sweet without added sugar overload

• Crisp, refreshing texture that doesn’t wilt quickly

• Budget-friendly and easy to prepare

• Great for digestion and everyday nutrition

• Works for all seasons, especially spring and summer

Carrots bring earthy sweetness and crunch, apples add juiciness and brightness, and a simple dressing ties everything together without masking the fresh flavors.

Equipment

Prepare these basic kitchen tools before you begin:

• Box grater or food processor (grating blade)

• Cutting board

• Sharp knife

• Large mixing bowl

• Small bowl or jar for dressing

• Measuring spoons

Ingredients List for Carrot Apple Salad

• 3 medium carrots, peeled and grated

• 2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith), julienned or grated

• 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (to prevent browning)

For the Dressing

• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

• Pinch of salt

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Timing & Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: None

• Total Time: 15 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

How to Make Carrot Apple Salad

Step 1. Prepare the Produce

Peel and grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor. Core the apples and either grate them or cut into thin matchsticks. Toss apples immediately with lemon juice to prevent discoloration.

Place carrots and apples in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2. Add Optional Mix-Ins

If using dried fruit or nuts, add them now. These ingredients aren’t required, but they add texture, contrast, and a little extra interest to each bite.

Step 3. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey, lemon juice or vinegar, salt, and pepper. The dressing should be lightly sweet, tangy, and creamy—but not heavy.

Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.

Step 4. Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the carrot apple mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. The salad should look glossy and lightly dressed, not weighed down.

Step 5. Chill Briefly (Optional)

For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld while maintaining crunch.

Flavor Tips from Experience

• Use crisp apples only—soft apples lose texture quickly

• Grate carrots finely for a more cohesive salad

• Balance sweetness with acid; lemon juice is key

• Don’t overdress—this salad shines when light

• Freshly cracked pepper adds subtle depth

Popular Variations to Try

Classic Creamy Version

Use mayonnaise instead of yogurt for a more traditional flavor.

Dairy-Free Option

Use vegan mayo or a light olive oil–lemon dressing.

Extra Crunch

Add sunflower seeds or sliced almonds.

Warm Spice Twist

Add a pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger for subtle warmth.

Serving Suggestions

Carrot apple salad pairs beautifully with many meals. Serve it:

• Alongside grilled chicken or fish

• With sandwiches or wraps

• As a picnic or potluck side dish

• As a light afternoon snack

• With holiday or everyday meals

It’s especially nice with rich or savory dishes, offering a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 140–180

• Protein: 3–5g

• Fat: 4–7g

• Carbohydrates: 22–26g

• Fiber: 4–6g

• Sugar: 14–18g

Values vary depending on dressing choice and optional add-ins.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator

• Best enjoyed within 24–48 hours

• Stir before serving as natural juices release

• Avoid freezing—texture will suffer

For a variety of fresh salad choices, try Roasted Sweet Potato Black Bean Salad, Chicken Couscous Salad, or Soba Noodle Salad.

Carrot Apple Salad

This carrot apple salad combines crunchy carrots, sweet apples, and a simple tangy dressing for a fresh, nutritious side that’s quick to prepare and easy to love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Calories: 140

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

For the Salad

• 3 medium carrots peeled and grated
• 2 crisp apples Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith, julienned or grated
• 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries optional
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans optional
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice to prevent browning

For the Dressing

• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
• Pinch of salt
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Box grater or food processor (grating blade)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl or jar for dressing
• Measuring spoons

Method

 

Prepare the Produce

1. Peel and grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor. Core the apples and either grate them or cut into thin matchsticks. Toss apples immediately with lemon juice to prevent discoloration.
2. Place carrots and apples in a large mixing bowl.

Add Optional Mix-Ins

1. If using dried fruit or nuts, add them now. These ingredients aren’t required, but they add texture, contrast, and a little extra interest to each bite.

Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey, lemon juice or vinegar, salt, and pepper. The dressing should be lightly sweet, tangy, and creamy—but not heavy.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.

Combine and Toss

1. Pour the dressing over the carrot apple mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. The salad should look glossy and lightly dressed, not weighed down.

Chill Briefly (Optional)

1. For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld while maintaining crunch.

Conclusion

Carrot apple salad is proof that simple food can still be deeply satisfying. Crisp carrots, juicy apples, and a lightly sweet dressing come together to create a dish that’s refreshing, nutritious, and endlessly versatile.

Whether you’re making a quick side or planning meals ahead, this salad deserves a regular spot in your kitchen.

Recipe FAQs

1. What apples work best for carrot apple salad?

Crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work best.

2. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, use vegan mayonnaise or a lemon-olive oil dressing.

3. How do I prevent apples from browning?

Toss them with lemon juice immediately after cutting.

4. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best within 24 hours for optimal crunch.

5. Is this salad good for kids?

Absolutely—its natural sweetness makes it very kid-friendly.