Creamy Apple, Carrot & Cranberry Salad

Preparation Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: None

• Chilling Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 6

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 3 medium apples (red or green)

• 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into thin strips

• ½ cup dried cranberries

• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Creamy Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Additions

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

• ¼ cup raisins

• ½ cup diced celery

• 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

1. Wash the apples thoroughly.

2. Remove the cores and seeds.

3. Cut apples into thin slices or matchsticks.

4. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

5. Add lemon juice and gently toss to prevent browning.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

1. Wash and peel the carrots.

2. Cut into thin strips or julienne.

3. Alternatively, grate the carrots using a grater.

4. Add them to the bowl with the apples.

Step 3: Prepare the Other Ingredients

1. Thinly slice the red onion.

2. Measure the dried cranberries.

3. Chop the fresh parsley.

4. Add everything to the apple and carrot mixture.

5. Toss gently.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a separate mixing bowl:

1. Add mayonnaise.

2. Add Greek yogurt.

3. Pour in honey.

4. Add apple cider vinegar.

5. Add Dijon mustard.

6. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper.

7. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as desired.

Step 5: Combine the Salad

1. Pour the creamy dressing over the prepared ingredients.

2. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

3. Make sure the apple slices and carrots are covered with dressing.

4. Add extra cranberries if desired.

Step 6: Chill the Salad

1. Cover the bowl.

2. Refrigerate for approximately 30 minutes.

3. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

4. Stir gently before serving.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the salad into a serving bowl.

2. Garnish with fresh parsley.

3. Sprinkle extra cranberries on top.

4. Add nuts or seeds if desired.

Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Estimated values per serving, based on 6 servings, without optional nuts.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Important: The optional walnuts and pecans contain tree nuts. Leave them out for a nut-free version. Check packaged ingredients for possible cross-contact warnings.

Helpful Tips

1. Prevent browning: Always toss freshly cut apples with lemon juice.

2. Extra crunch: Use crisp apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.

3. Creamier texture: Add an extra tablespoon of Greek yogurt.

4. Sweeter flavor: Add a little more honey.

5. Healthier dressing: Replace some mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt.

6. Make ahead: Prepare the dressing separately and combine shortly before serving.

7. Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoy within 2 days for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious salad pairs wonderfully with:

• Grilled chicken

• Roasted turkey

• BBQ chicken

• Sandwiches and burgers

• Grilled fish

• Roasted vegetables

Final Result: A colorful, refreshing salad filled with crunchy apples, sweet carrots, chewy cranberries, and creamy tangy dressing. Every bite is sweet, crisp, and delicious!