🥗 Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing
Bright, fresh, and full of flavor — this Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad is a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and crunch! Juicy apples and crisp carrots come together with a zesty, creamy citrus dressing for a refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with any meal. It’s light, healthy, and so satisfying — you’ll want to make it again and again! 🍏🍎
🥕 Ingredients
- 1 red apple, cut into matchstick pieces
- 1 green apple, cut into matchstick pieces
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- 2 cups matchstick carrots (or grated)
- ¼ cup yellow onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for richer flavor)
- 1 tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley, walnuts, or sunflower seeds
👩🍳 Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the red and green apples with lemon juice to keep them crisp and colorful.
- Add the carrots and diced onion, tossing everything gently to mix.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, orange juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or crunchy nuts/seeds, if desired.
- Chill for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
📝 Notes
- For extra crunch, add thinly sliced celery or shredded cabbage.
- Prefer it sweeter? Add raisins or dried cranberries.
- Make it vegan by using dairy-free yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey.
- Tastes even better after 30 minutes in the fridge as the flavors meld together!
💡 Tips
- Use firm apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith for the perfect bite.
- Toss apples in lemon juice right away to prevent oxidation (browning).
- For meal prep, store dressing separately and mix before serving.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist!
🍽️ Servings
Serves 3–4 people as a side salad or 2 people as a light lunch.
⚖️ Nutritional Info (per serving)
Approximate values:
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 16g
💚 Health Benefits
- Rich in fiber for digestion and fullness.
- Vitamin-packed from apples and carrots for glowing skin and strong immunity.
- Low in calories & high in antioxidants — a perfect energizing snack or meal side.
- The Greek yogurt dressing adds healthy protein and probiotics.
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Just keep the dressing separate and toss it before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Q: What can I use instead of yogurt?
A: Sour cream, mayo, or a mix of both works great — or go vegan with coconut yogurt!
Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: Up to 2 days in an airtight container — just give it a quick stir before serving.
💬 Stay Connected
If you love light, refreshing, and wholesome salads like this one, keep following to keep getting my recipes that make healthy eating colorful, simple, and fun! 🌿💛
✨ Every day’s better with a bowl full of crunch and sunshine! 🍎🥕🍊