Make this refreshing and crunchy carrot apple walnut salad. It uses simple ingredients and a bright honey-Dijon dressing for a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Author:Claire
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:5 min
Total Time:20 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Salad
Method:Mixing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 cups shredded carrots
2 medium crisp apples (like Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and diced
1 cup chopped walnuts, lightly toasted
1/2 cup golden raisins (optional)
1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Prepare the vegetables and fruit: Shred the carrots and dice the apples. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Toast the walnuts: Place the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or yogurt), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine the salad: Add the cooled walnuts and raisins (if using) to the bowl with the carrots and apples.
Dress the salad: Pour the honey-Dijon dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Serve immediately or chill: You can serve this crunchy salad right away, or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Notes
Toasting the walnuts brings out their flavor. Do not skip this step for the best taste.
For a lighter version, substitute plain Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise in the dressing.
This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two days, though the apples may soften slightly.
If you want a brighter flavor, add 1/4 cup of finely chopped celery to the mix.