Crunchy Apple Carrot Salad (Printable)
Crisp apples and carrots with celery, nuts, and a zesty creamy citrus yogurt dressing for a bright, crunchy dish.
# What You'll Need:
→ Salad
01 - 2 medium apples, cored and cut into matchsticks (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp preferred)
02 - 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks
03 - 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
04 - 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
05 - 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
→ Creamy Citrus Dressing
07 - 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt, or plant-based yogurt
08 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
09 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
10 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
11 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
12 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
13 - 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
# How-To Steps:
01 - Place julienned apples, carrots, sliced celery, chopped walnuts, raisins, and parsley in a large mixing bowl. Gently toss to distribute evenly.
02 - Whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, freshly squeezed orange juice, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl until smooth and well-blended.
03 - Pour the dressing over the assembled salad. Toss thoroughly so all ingredients are fully coated with the creamy citrus dressing.
04 - Transfer to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with additional nuts and parsley as desired. Serve immediately for optimal crunch, or refrigerate no longer than 1 hour before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- That creamy, tangy citrus dressing is the secret ingredient everyone will ask you about.
- It's quick to make, full of vibrant crunch, and perfect for sharing or storing ahead for tomorrow's lunch.
02 -
- If you let the salad sit too long after tossing, the apples will lose their crispness—mix just before serving.
- To keep your dressing ultra smooth, always whisk yogurt and mayo first before adding the citrus juice.
03 -
- Invest in a good quality julienne peeler—the right tool makes the prep a breeze.
- A tiny pinch of zest in the dressing can send the citrus flavor over the top.