This Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is a vibrant mix of crunchy, sweet, and tangy—perfect for a refreshing side dish or light lunch. Packed with shredded carrots, juicy apples, dried cranberries, and a citrusy honey-lime dressing, this salad comes together in minutes and delivers a burst of natural flavors with every bite.
It’s the perfect balance of nutrition and flavor, ideal for clean eating, meal prep, or holiday tables.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
✅ No cooking required—just chop, toss, and serve
✅ Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins
✅ Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly
✅ Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or lunchboxes
✅ Sweet, tangy, and ultra-refreshing
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large carrots, shredded or julienned
- 1 large apple, thinly sliced or matchsticked (Honeycrisp or Fuji work great)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or sweetened)
- 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice (to keep apples from browning)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or mint (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp fresh lime or lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp grated ginger for zing
How to Make Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad
1. Prep the Produce
Shred carrots using a box grater or food processor. Core and thinly slice apples, then toss them in lemon or lime juice to prevent browning.
2. Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, combine shredded carrots, apples, cranberries, and parsley or mint (if using).
3. Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lemon or lime juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Toss and Chill
Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine. Chill for 15–20 minutes for flavors to blend—or serve immediately.
Optional Add-Ins
- Toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch
- Feta or goat cheese for a creamy element
- Chia seeds or sunflower seeds for extra nutrients
- Sliced celery or red cabbage for more texture
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge up to 2 days
- Store dressing separately for longer shelf life
- Toss in apples just before serving to maintain crispness
What to Serve It With
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Quinoa or couscous for a heartier bowl
- As a side for holiday meals, picnics, or brunch spreads
- Great on its own as a light and energizing lunch
Final Thoughts
With crisp apples, chewy cranberries, and sweet carrots all tied together in a bright citrusy dressing, this Apple Cranberry Carrot Salad is an easy way to add color, crunch, and nutrients to your plate. It’s quick, customizable, and absolutely delicious—proof that healthy eating can be bursting with flavor.
Fresh. Light. Naturally sweet. 🥕🍎🍋