Description
A quick, healthy, and refreshing carrot raisin salad featuring a creamy honey-lemon dressing, shredded carrots, plump raisins, crunchy nuts, and a hint of warm spices. Perfect as a light side dish or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dressing
- 1 cup Mayonnaise (Adds creaminess; substitute with sour cream for tangier option.)
- 2 tablespoons Honey (Adjust to preference for sweetness.)
- 1 tablespoon Water (Thins the dressing.)
- 0.5 cup Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed for best flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Kosher or sea salt recommended.)
Salad
- 3 cups Shredded Carrot (Fresh and vibrant for best texture.)
- 1 cup Raisins (Opt for moist, plump raisins.)
- 0.5 cup Chopped Nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans) (Adds crunch.)
- 1 cup Diced Apples or Pineapple (Introduces sweetness.)
- 0.5 cup Dried Cranberries or Chopped Dates (For a fruity twist.)
- 1 pinch Cinnamon or Nutmeg (For a warm flavor twist.)
Instructions
- Preparation: Gather all ingredients and ensure the carrots are peeled, and fruits and nuts are ready for mixing.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, water, lemon juice, and salt until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Shred the Carrots: Peel fresh carrots and shred them finely to make about 3 cups, providing a nice texture for the salad.
- Combine Carrots with Dressing: Stir the shredded carrots into the prepared dressing bowl until the carrots are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Fold in the Raisins: Gently add the plump raisins to the carrot and dressing mixture, mixing carefully to incorporate them without breaking them up.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Fold in the chopped nuts, diced apples or pineapple, dried cranberries or chopped dates, and a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to add crunch, sweetness, and a warm flavor dimension.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and to serve it refreshingly cold.
- Serve and Toss: Before serving, gently toss the salad to redistribute ingredients and dressing evenly. Enjoy this light, flavorful salad as a side or snack.
Notes
- For a tangier dressing, substitute mayonnaise with sour cream.
- Adjust the amount of honey according to your desired sweetness.
- Ensure carrots are freshly shredded for best crunch and flavor.
- You can substitute nuts with your preferred type or omit for nut allergies.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead and stored refrigerated.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for optimal freshness and taste.
