Refreshing Apple Cranberry Carrot

This crisp apple cranberry carrot salad comes together fast and brings brightness to any table. Juicy apples and carrots mix with chewy cranberries and mandarins in a creamy, tangy dressing that pleases kids and grownups alike

I first made this on a whim for a picnic and my friends emptied the bowl in no time. Now whenever apples are in season I crave that burst of citrus and juicy crunch.

Ingredients

• Red apple: firms up the salad and brings a subtle sweetness Look for one that feels heavy for its size and free of bruises
• Green apple: adds a tart refreshing snap Choose a Granny Smith for best results
• Lemon juice: keeps apples from browning and brightens the salad Freshly squeezed tastes best
• Matchstick carrots: save time and keep the texture fresh Buy them pre-cut or slice your own for a crisper bite
• Yellow onion: brings a gentle sharpness Dice it finely so the flavor stays subtle
• Dried cranberries: offer chewy contrast and a pop of color Sweetened work best here
• Vanilla yogurt: gives the dressing light creaminess Choose a brand with real vanilla for best flavor
• Mayonnaise: adds richness and smoothness Use good quality for a balanced texture
• Sugar: lifts and balances the tang with just a touch of sweetness
• Salt: deepens the flavor and keeps it from tasting flat
• Black pepper: gives a gentle warmth Use freshly ground for best results
• Canned mandarin segments: finish with bright juiciness Drain well so the salad stays creamy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Apples:

Slice both apples into matchstick pieces that are about the length of a finger and slender as a pencil. Place them in a mixing bowl. Pour the lemon juice over all the cut apples and toss so every piece is coated. Set aside for five minutes to help the flavor soak in and prevent browning

Combine Ingredients:

In a separate large bowl add the matchstick carrots finely diced onion and dried cranberries. Use your hands to gently toss the carrots with the other ingredients so the flavors start to mingle

Add the Apples:

Tip the lemony apples into the bowl with the carrots cranberries and onions. Scrape out every bit of lemon juice. Fold everything together to distribute the color and texture evenly

Make the Dressing:

Add the vanilla yogurt mayonnaise sugar salt and pepper right on top of the mixture. Use a spatula or big spoon to mix slowly from the bottom up. Every shred of carrot and piece of apple should be coated in the creamy dressing. Be careful not to mash the apples

Finish with Mandarins:

Gently fold in the drained mandarin segments. Use a light hand so the fruit stays mostly whole and does not release too much juice into the salad

Chill:

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Place in the refrigerator for at least three hours. This resting time melds the flavors and transforms the texture into something greater than the sum of its parts

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Mandarins are my favorite in this recipe Their candy-like sweetness lifts the whole salad and reminds me of grandma’s fruit bowls at family parties She always slipped in extra mandarins just for me and now I do the same for my kids

Storage Tips

Once tossed this salad holds up well in the fridge for up to three days Covered tightly the apples remain crisp with the lemon juice protecting their color I always give everything a gentle toss before serving again

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of dried cranberries try golden raisins or chopped dried apricots For a dairy-free option swap in coconut yogurt and skip the mayo Pecans or walnuts are a nice crunchy addition if you want more texture

Serving Suggestions

This salad is fantastic on its own as a light lunch or as a side for grilled chicken or fish I sometimes pack it in individual jars for picnics or tuck it into pitas with leafy greens for an easy sandwich

Cultural and Seasonal Context

Fruit and vegetable salads like this are celebrated in many American communities during autumn and winter holidays The mix of apples and citrus keeps spirits high when cold weather sets in and the creamy dressing is always a comfort

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you prevent apples from browning in the salad?

Toss cut apple pieces with lemon juice right after slicing. This keeps them crisp and slows down browning.

→ Can you substitute Greek yogurt for vanilla yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well and thickens the dressing. Add a little honey for sweetness if desired.

→ Should the salad be served chilled?

Absolutely, chilling for several hours helps combine flavors and gives a refreshing taste and texture.

→ Is it possible to make this salad nut-free?

Yes, it contains no nuts, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.

→ Can fresh mandarins replace canned segments?

Fresh mandarins offer extra brightness; just peel, segment, and remove any seeds before adding.

→ How long does this salad keep in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it's best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.