Healthy Carrot Apple Salad (15 Minutes)

Shredded carrots and thinly sliced apples make an easy raw salad here, tossed in a bright lemon-honey dressing that ties the sweet and earthy flavors together. A short chill in the fridge lets everything mellow and meld before serving, though it's ready to eat right away if you're short on time. Toss in nuts and dried fruit for extra crunch and it turns into something substantial enough for a light lunch.

Shredded carrots and sliced apples tossed in a bright lemon-honey dressing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Fast: ready in about 15 minutes (15 min prep, ? min cook)
• Simple: 9 everyday ingredients
• Feeds the family: 4 servings
• Light: about 150 calories per serving

Ingredients

• 3 cups shredded carrots ((approximately 4-5 medium carrots))
• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) (thinly sliced or julienned)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds, toasted almonds, or pecans

Instructions

1. Wash and peel the carrots, then shred them using a box grater or food processor.
2. Core and thinly slice the apples into matchsticks or small chunks, tossing them in lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl, adjusting the sweetness or tanginess to taste.
4. Combine the shredded carrots, sliced apples, and any optional add-ins in a large bowl, drizzle with the dressing, and toss until evenly coated.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to let the flavors meld, then serve cold.

Cooking Tips

• Shred the carrots finely so they blend well with the thin apple slices.
• Toss the apples in lemon juice right away to prevent browning.
• Let the salad chill for the full 15 to 20 minutes for the best flavor.

Substitutions

• Maple syrup can replace honey for a vegan version.
• Pears can replace apples.
• Dried cranberries can replace raisins.

Storage

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Give it a stir before serving leftovers, since the dressing can settle.
• This salad doesn't freeze well due to the fresh apples.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve cold as a light lunch or side dish.
• Add a scoop of Greek yogurt on the side for extra protein.
• Top with extra nuts right before serving for crunch.

Nutrition (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	150 kcal

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