Fresh Carrot Apple Salad with Cranberries and Mandarin Oranges

Bright, crisp, and naturally sweet, Fresh Carrot Apple Salad with Cranberries and Mandarin Oranges is the perfect balance of refreshing crunch and citrus flavor. This colorful carrot apple salad recipe combines fresh vegetables and fruit into one vibrant dish that works beautifully as a healthy holiday side dish or an everyday lunch companion.

Lightly dressed with a simple honey-lemon vinaigrette, this fresh fruit vegetable salad is naturally sweetened and requires no cooking at all. It comes together in just minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or festive gatherings.

If you are searching for an easy no cook salad that delivers both flavor and nutrition, this cranberry mandarin salad is a must-try.

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Why You’ll Love This Carrot Apple Salad Recipe

• Ready in under 20 minutes
• No cooking required
• Naturally gluten-free
• Perfect for meal prep
• Bright, colorful, and crowd-pleasing

The contrast of crisp carrots, juicy apples, chewy cranberries, and citrusy mandarins creates a layered texture that makes every bite exciting. The light vinaigrette enhances the natural sweetness without overpowering the ingredients.

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Ingredients

For the Salad

• 3 cups shredded carrots
• 2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup mandarin orange segments (fresh or canned, drained)
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint or parsley, chopped

For the Honey-Lemon Dressing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Pinch of salt
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Produce

1. Wash and peel carrots, then shred using a grater or food processor.
2. Core apples and slice thinly. Leave skin on for extra texture and nutrients.
3. Drain mandarin oranges if using canned.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

6. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded carrots, apple slices, dried cranberries, and mandarin segments.
7. Pour dressing over the mixture.
8. Toss gently until evenly coated.
9. Garnish with chopped mint or parsley.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

10. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
11. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

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Tips for Best Flavor and Texture

Use Crisp Apples

Firm varieties prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Add Dressing Just Before Serving

For maximum crunch, toss with dressing shortly before serving.

Prevent Browning

If preparing ahead, toss apple slices with a little extra lemon juice.

Balance Sweetness

Adjust honey depending on how sweet your apples and mandarins are.

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Variations

1. Add Nuts

Include toasted almonds or walnuts for crunch and healthy fats.

2. Creamy Version

Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.

3. Extra Citrus

Add orange zest for intensified citrus aroma.

4. Protein Boost

Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a complete meal.

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Serving Suggestions

This healthy holiday side dish pairs beautifully with:

• Roasted chicken
• Baked fish
• Grilled turkey
• Quinoa bowls
• Sandwiches and wraps

It also works wonderfully as a light lunch or refreshing summer salad.

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Nutritional Benefits

This fresh fruit vegetable salad offers impressive nutritional value:

• High in fiber from carrots and apples
• Vitamin C from mandarins
• Antioxidants from cranberries
• Healthy fats from olive oil

It is naturally dairy-free and can easily be made vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey.

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Perfect for Holidays and Gatherings

Because of its bright colors and sweet-tangy flavor, this cranberry mandarin salad is a popular choice during fall and winter celebrations. The orange and red tones complement festive tables, making it an eye-catching addition to holiday meals.

Unlike heavy side dishes, this salad adds freshness and balance to rich main courses.

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Storage and Meal Prep

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For best results:

• Keep dressing separate if storing longer than one day
• Add fresh herbs just before serving

This makes it an excellent meal prep option for busy weeks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Yes, though freshly shredded carrots provide better texture.

Can I substitute dried cranberries?

Raisins or chopped dried apricots work well.

Is this salad kid-friendly?

Absolutely. Its natural sweetness makes it appealing to children.

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Final Thoughts

Fresh Carrot Apple Salad with Cranberries and Mandarin Oranges is a vibrant, easy no cook salad that combines crisp vegetables with sweet fruit and a light citrus dressing. Perfect as a healthy holiday side dish or quick everyday option, it delivers color, texture, and nutrition in every bite.

Whether served at a festive gathering or packed for lunch, this carrot apple salad recipe brings freshness and balance to any meal.