This Classic Carrot Summer Salad combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a variety of fruits, brought together with a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish. Here’s how to make this delightful and easy salad.
Ingredients:
10 oz. shredded carrots (or julienne 1 or 2 large carrots)
½ cup raisins
½ cup fresh pineapple, diced
½ cup apple, diced
¼ cup grapes, diced
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup full-fat Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons organic cane sugar
¼ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
Prepare the Fruits and Carrots:
If you haven’t purchased pre-shredded carrots, peel and julienne or shred 1 or 2 large carrots until you have approximately 10 ounces.
Dice the pineapple, apple, and grapes into small, bite-sized pieces. If you like, you can soak the apple pieces in lemon water for a few minutes to prevent browning.
Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, raisins, diced pineapple, diced apple, and diced grapes. Toss them gently to mix.
Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, organic cane sugar, and sea salt until smooth. Adjust the sweetness or seasoning according to your taste.
Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the carrot and fruit mixture. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This not only chills the salad but allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
Give the salad a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
Tips:
Variations: Feel free to add nuts like chopped walnuts or almonds for added texture and protein. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds also make great additions.
Storage: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this salad as a side dish with grilled meats or sandwiches. It’s particularly refreshing on hot summer days.
Conclusion:
The Classic Carrot Summer Salad is a vibrant, nutritious, and delicious addition to any meal, especially during the warmer months. Its combination of sweet and creamy flavors makes it a hit among both adults and children. Enjoy the freshness of the ingredients and the delightful mix of textures in this easy-to-make salad.
