Description
Carrot Apple Salad is a delicious and colorful dish loaded with sliced red and green apples, carrots, dried cranberries, and mandarins, all tossed in a creamy vanilla yogurt and mayo dressing. This refreshing salad is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or as a light and fruity side dish.
Ingredients
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1 red delicious apple
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1 granny smith apple
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2 tablespoons lemon juice
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2 cups matchstick carrots (pre-cut bags available at the grocery store)
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1/4 cup yellow onion, finely diced
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1/3 cup dried sweetened cranberries
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1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
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1/4 cup mayo
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon pepper
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1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained
Instructions
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Prepare the apples:
Cut both apples into matchstick pieces and place them in a bowl.
Pour the lemon juice over the apples and toss to coat.
Let sit for 5 minutes to prevent browning. -
Make the salad base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine matchstick carrots, diced onion, and cranberries.
Add the lemon-coated apples. -
Add the dressing:
Stir in the vanilla yogurt and mayo.
Sprinkle in the sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly. -
Add the fruit:
Gently stir in the mandarin segments.
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Chill and serve:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving. Serve chilled.
Notes
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For added crunch, toss in chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds just before serving.
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Swap vanilla yogurt for plain Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and added protein.
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This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
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If you prefer a less sweet dressing, reduce the sugar or use plain yogurt.
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Best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.