This Carrot Apple Salad Recipe is a vibrant and refreshing addition to any meal, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. With the bright flavors of fresh carrots and crisp apples, it brings a light yet satisfying bite that’s both healthy and delightful.
Pair it with dishes like Hibachi Salmon and Chicken Asparagus for an elevated culinary experience. The bright tang of the salad complements the smoky richness of hibachi grilling and the savory depth of roasted chicken, making for a balanced and harmonious meal.
While simple in ingredients, this salad showcases the elegance of fresh produce and thoughtful seasoning. It’s a dish that invites you to explore the world of raw vegetable salads, where the simplest ingredients can turn into something extraordinary
Flavor Bomb Alert!
- I first discovered the magic of this salad when I was craving a light, crunchy side that still had substance. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- I’ve experimented with adding nuts like walnuts, which bring an extra layer of texture. If you enjoy a little crunch, it’s a must-try addition!
- This salad fits easily into my weeknight routine when I need a quick side dish that complements a main like hibachi salmon or grilled chicken.
- I’ve made this salad at family gatherings, and it’s always a crowd favorite. People are often surprised by how something so simple can taste so good.
- It’s a weight-friendly, feel-good side that supports my healthy eating goals while still being flavorful. It tastes good and feels good to eat!
Carrot Apple Salad Recipe
Equipment
- SkilletMixing bowls (2)
- Whisk
- Grater or food processor
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Spatula
- Cutting board
Ingredients Â
- 1 Granny Smith apple, cored and shredded
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp white sugar
- 2 tbsp safflower oil
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
InstructionsÂ
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the sesame seeds, and stir frequently until they become fragrant and lightly browned, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Transfer them to a bowl and let them cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, diced apple, toasted sesame seeds, and chopped parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually pour in the safflower oil while whisking continuously until the dressing emulsifies.
- Drizzle the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss everything together until well coated.
Notes
- Use a box grater or food processor for quick and even shredding of the carrots.
- For extra flavor, add a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts.
- A dash of ground cinnamon complements the sweetness of the apples beautifully.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 97kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 11g |
| Fibre | 2g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Protein | 1g |
Variations to Help You Customize This Dish!
- Nutty Crunch – Swap sesame seeds for toasted sunflower seeds, slivered almonds, or crushed walnuts for extra texture.
- Sweet & Tart – Use different apple varieties like Honeycrisp for sweetness or Granny Smith for a tart kick.
- Spiced Up – Add a pinch of cumin, paprika or a dash of cayenne for a warm, spicy note.
- Citrus Twist – Replace lemon juice with orange or lime juice for a zesty, tropical flavor.
- Creamy Option – Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt, tahini, or a light mayo for a richer dressing.
