Name: Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Mayonnaise; 1 tbsp Lemon juice; ½ tbsp Sugar; ¼ tsp Salt; 4 cups Shredded carrots; 1 large Apple (cut into small pieces); 1 cup Dried cranberries (or raisins); ¼ cup Chopped toasted walnuts

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There’s something so refreshing about a crisp salad, and my go-to is a Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries. I vividly remember the first time I made this dish. It was a chilly fall day, and I craved something bright and vibrant to pair with my warm meals. I stumbled upon this recipe, which combines the sweetness of shredded carrots with the tang of cranberries, and immediately knew I had to try it. The crunch of the carrots and the delightful chewiness of cranberries create a perfect balance that makes every bite enjoyable. Not to mention, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies during the colder months when fresh produce is usually less appealing. This salad has since become a staple in my kitchen, often making appearances at family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy dinners at home. I love how it can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a light lunch, this Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries is incredibly versatile. The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. I find that a sprinkle of toasted walnuts adds a lovely crunch, while the sweetness of dried cranberries brings a pop of flavor. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeks or unexpected guests. I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

What We Adore About This Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries

Nutritious and Delicious

This Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is good for your eyesight, while cranberries are rich in antioxidants. Together, they create a healthful dish that you can feel good about serving.

Perfect for Any Season

While I love this salad in fall, it’s actually delightful throughout the year. The bright colors and fresh flavors can brighten up any plate, making it a fantastic addition to summer barbecues or winter holidays.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

One of my favorite things about making this salad is how quickly it comes together. In just a few minutes, you can have a stunning dish ready to serve with minimal effort. It’s perfect for those busy nights when time is short but you still want something homemade.

Great for Meal Prep

This salad is fantastic for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator, where it stays crisp and fresh for several days. It’s a simple way to ensure you always have a nutritious option ready to go.

Fun for the Family

Getting kids involved in the kitchen is a great way to encourage them to eat more vegetables. This Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries is a fun recipe for little hands to help with, from washing the veggies to mixing the salad. It’s a great way to introduce them to the joys of healthy eating!

Main Ingredients for Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries

This Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries is a symphony of flavors, combining fresh, wholesome ingredients that not only taste great together, but also provide a variety of nutrients. The main players here are shredded carrots, dried cranberries, and toasted walnuts, each bringing its unique characteristic to the dish. The sweetness of the carrots and cranberries contrasts beautifully with the slightly bitter, nutty flavor of the walnuts, creating a well-rounded salad that’s satisfying without being heavy.

½ cup mayonnaise: This creamy dressing adds a rich texture, binding all the ingredients together while enhancing the overall flavor.
1 tbsp lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens the salad, adding a refreshing tang that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
½ tbsp sugar: Just a touch of sugar helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the carrots and cranberries.
¼ tsp salt: A pinch of salt makes all the flavors pop, ensuring that each bite is delicious.
4 cups shredded carrots: The star of the show! Shredded carrots provide crunch, nutrition, and a beautiful orange color.
1 large apple, cut into small pieces: The apple adds a crisp texture and additional sweetness, making this salad even more enjoyable.
1 cup dried cranberries: These little gems bring a chewy texture and a tart burst of flavor that complements the carrots perfectly.
¼ cup chopped toasted walnuts: The walnuts add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor, enhancing the salad’s overall texture.

Making This Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries

Creating this Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries is really straightforward and fun! It’s all about mixing the right ingredients and letting their natural flavors shine. Let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious salad.

Start by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp lemon juice, ½ tbsp sugar, and ¼ tsp salt. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed; you want it to be just right to complement the salad.
Next, grab a large mixing bowl and place the 4 cups shredded carrots inside. I like to use a box grater to shred my carrots; it gives them a nice, even texture. You should see the vibrant orange color filling the bowl, which is always a good sign!
Now, chop your 1 large apple into small pieces. I prefer to leave the skin on for added fiber and color, but you can peel it if you like a smoother texture. Add the apple pieces to the bowl with the carrots, and stir them together gently.
It’s time to add the stars of the dish! Toss in 1 cup dried cranberries and ¼ cup chopped toasted walnuts. The cranberries will add a sweet and tart burst, while the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. Mix everything well so all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Once everything is combined, pour your dressing over the salad. The dressing will coat the carrots, apple, cranberries, and walnuts, bringing all the flavors together. Use a spatula to gently fold the dressing into the salad, being careful not to mush the apples.
After mixing, let your salad sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more delicious dish. You can keep it in the refrigerator if you want to chill it further before serving.
Finally, give the salad one last stir before serving. You want to ensure that all the ingredients are well coated in dressing. Serve the Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries as a side dish or enjoy it as a light lunch!

Things Worth Knowing

Fresh is Best: Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Mix and Match: Feel free to add other ingredients like raisins, nuts, or seeds to customize your salad.
Make Ahead: You can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Tips for Success

Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries

To ensure your Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries turns out delicious every time, here are some tips you can follow.

Storage: Keep your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of shredded carrots and apples can become mushy when thawed.
Pairing: This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side to a hearty soup.
Variations: Try adding different fruits like oranges or nuts such as pecans for a twist on this classic salad.
Presentation: Serve this salad in a clear bowl to show off its vibrant colors, making it more inviting to your guests.

Side Dish Ideas for Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries

When it comes to serving your Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries, the options are endless! Here are some delightful ideas for what to serve alongside this vibrant salad:

Grilled Chicken: The freshness of this salad beautifully complements the smokiness of grilled chicken, making for a well-rounded meal.
Fish Dishes: Whether it’s baked salmon or grilled tilapia, the salad’s bright flavors enhance any seafood platter.
Vegetarian Options: Serve it with stuffed bell peppers or veggie burgers for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Soups: A warm bowl of soup, especially something hearty like lentil or minestrone, pairs wonderfully with the crispness of the salad.
Picnic Delight: This salad is perfect for outdoor gatherings and picnics. It’s easy to transport and stays fresh.
Holiday Feasts: Add this salad to your holiday table for a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes.

FAQ

Absolutely! This Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it several hours in advance. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to keep the carrots and apples from becoming soggy. Once dressed, it can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days!

This salad is quite versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or hearty soups. Its freshness also makes it a great side at picnics or light lunches. You can also enjoy it on its own for a refreshing snack!

Definitely! Feel free to add other ingredients like raisins, or different nuts such as pecans or almonds. You could also toss in some celery for an extra crunch or swap the walnuts for sunflower seeds to make it nut-free.

The Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries will stay fresh for about three days in the refrigerator. To ensure it stays crisp, store it in an airtight container and keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

The Shredded Carrot Salad with Cranberries is truly a standout dish that combines vibrant colors and flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try, as it’s easy to prepare and wonderfully versatile. Whether served on its own or as a side, this salad is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at your table.