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15-Minute Easy Carrot Salad

A fresh, lightly sweetened carrot salad with juicy pineapple, plump raisins, and a creamy honey-lemon dressing.
Quick, fiber-rich, and versatile, it’s a perfect side for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Southern
Servings 8

Equipment

  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Vegetable Peeler
  • 1 Box Grater or Food Processor
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons
  • 1 Whisk

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb. carrots peeled and shredded
  • ⅔ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup pineapple tidbits preferably fresh
  • 1 cup raisins
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Carrots: Start by washing, peeling, and trimming the carrots to remove any tough ends; then use a box grater or food processor to shred them into thin, uniform pieces,
    ensuring a tender texture that blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
  • Make the Dressing: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy,
    tasting as you go to adjust sweetness or acidity, creating a balanced, luscious dressing that will coat the carrots evenly.
  • Combine Salad Ingredients: Gently fold the shredded carrots, pineapple tidbits, and raisins into the prepared dressing,
    making sure each piece is lightly coated without crushing the fruits, preserving their shape and flavor for a visually appealing and delicious salad.
  • Season to Taste: Sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper gradually, mixing gently to enhance flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of the fruits and vegetables;
    taste and adjust seasoning to achieve a harmonious balance.
  • Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate for 45–60 minutes to allow the flavors to meld; serve cold for maximum freshness,
    vibrant color, and a refreshing, crisp texture.

Notes

  • For best flavor, shred carrots just before mixing with dressing to maintain crispness.
  • Fresh pineapple adds juiciness and natural sweetness, but canned or chopped apples are great substitutes.
  • To reduce sugar, omit the honey; raisins and pineapple naturally provide sweetness.
  • Add extra crunch with chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.
  • Chilling the salad at least 45 minutes before serving helps flavors meld beautifully.
  • For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a honey-Dijon vinaigrette.
  • Dried cranberries can be substituted for raisins for a slightly tart flavor.