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Homemade carrot raisin salad in a large white dish on a kitchen counter
Chef Ava

Carrot Raisin Salad

This classic Carrot Raisin Salad combines freshly grated carrots with sweet raisins in a creamy dressing, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It's a quick and easy side dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or everyday meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients
  • 4 cups freshly grated carrots
  • 1 cup raisins Soak in warm water for 10 minutes and drain for enhanced texture.
Dressing Ingredients
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise For a lighter version, substitute with Greek yogurt.
  • 2 tablespoons sugar Adjust based on sweetness preference and additional fruits.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Alternatively, use apple cider vinegar for a tangy flavor.
Optional Add-ins
  • 1/2 cup drained pineapple tidbits Adds a tropical twist.
  • 1/2 cup diced apple Provides additional sweetness and crunch.
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts Use pecans or almonds for added crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons shredded coconut Introduces a unique flavor.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Grater
  • Spoon

Method
 

  1. Soak the raisins: Place the raisins in warm water for about 10 minutes to plump them up. Drain before use.
    Freshly grated orange carrots next to a bowl of dark raisins soaking in water, key ingredients for a summer carrot raisin salad.
  2. Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), sugar, and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  3. Combine the ingredients: Add the freshly grated carrots and drained raisins to the bowl with the dressing. If you're including any optional add-ins like pineapple tidbits, diced apple, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut, add them now.
    Grated carrots, soaked raisins, and pineapple tidbits being added to a creamy dressing in a white bowl for a summer carrot raisin salad.
  4. Mix thoroughly: Stir all the ingredients together until the carrots and raisins are evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Chill the salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste and texture.
  6. Serve: Once chilled, give the salad a final stir and serve it as a refreshing side dish.
    Carrot raisin salad served with chopped nuts on a white bowl

Notes

Carrots: For optimal texture and flavor, use fresh, firm, and vibrant orange carrots. Grate them using the large side of a box grater or a food processor, being careful not to over-process. Freshly grated carrots absorb the dressing better than pre-shredded ones.
Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference and the sweetness of any additional fruits you include.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the texture may soften over time.