Description
This Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing offers a refreshing and healthy combination of tart apples, sweet carrots, and a zesty, creamy dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or side dish, it balances crisp textures with rich, tangy flavors enhanced by fresh herbs and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 medium apples (preferably tart, like Granny Smith), julienned
- 2 large carrots, peeled and julienned
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts (optional, for added crunch)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the fruits and vegetables: Wash and julienne the apples and carrots. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the fresh cilantro or parsley. Set aside.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Toss the salad: In a large bowl, combine the julienned apples, carrots, sliced red onion, and fresh herbs. Pour the creamy citrus dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle the sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the salad fresh as a light meal or as a crisp side dish. Optionally, chill for 10–15 minutes before serving for a cool refreshment.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor that complements the sweetness of the dressing.
- The salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day; however, seeds and apples may lose crunch over time.
- Walnuts can be substituted for sunflower seeds if preferred for extra richness.
- Adjust the honey or maple syrup based on your preferred sweetness level.
- For a vegan version, replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.
