Crisp Apple & Carrot Delight Salad
A refreshing, low-calorie salad combining the crispness of Granny Smith apples and the crunch of matchstick carrots, accentuated with a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light snack or a side dish, this salad is nutritious and easy to prepare. Enjoy the harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and savory flavors that make it a must-have for those who are health-conscious.
4
Servings
50
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
fat-free mayonnaise
1/4 cup (whisked)
cider vinegar
1 tablespoon
artificial sweetener (non-caloric such as Splenda)
1/2 teaspoon
Granny Smith apples
2 (cored and diced)
matchstick cut carrots
2 cups
celery stalk
1 (finely chopped)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the fat-free mayonnaise, cider vinegar, and artificial sweetener until smooth and well blended.
2
Add the diced Granny Smith apples, matchstick carrots, and finely chopped celery to the bowl.
3
Gently toss all ingredients until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
4
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Enjoy chilled.
Nutrition Information
11.5g
Carbs
2g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Crisp Apple & Carrot Delight Salad?
It is a refreshing, low-calorie salad that combines the crispness of Granny Smith apples with the crunch of matchstick carrots in a tangy dressing.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving of this salad contains approximately 50 calories.
Is this salad suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, the Crisp Apple & Carrot Delight Salad is vegetarian-friendly.
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for Granny Smith apples because their tartness and firm texture complement the carrots and dressing.
What are the main ingredients in the dressing?
The dressing is made from a blend of fat-free mayonnaise, cider vinegar, and a non-caloric artificial sweetener.
How should I prepare the carrots?
The carrots should be prepared in a matchstick cut to ensure a consistent crunch throughout the salad.
Is there any celery in this salad?
Yes, the recipe includes one finely chopped celery stalk for added flavor and texture.
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
The preparation is very quick, but you should factor in at least 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator.
Why does the salad need to be chilled for 30 minutes?
Chilling allows the flavors of the dressing and the produce to meld together properly.
Can I use a different type of sweetener?
Yes, you can use other sweeteners, though the nutritional values may change if you use caloric options like sugar or honey.
How much fiber is in a serving?
Each serving provides 2 grams of dietary fiber.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
There are 11.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as healthy and low-calorie, making it a great choice for weight management.
Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of fat-free?
You can, but it will significantly increase the fat and calorie content of the salad.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
The salad offers a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and savory flavors.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, it is best served chilled and can be made a few hours before your meal.
Should the apples be peeled?
The recipe calls for them to be cored and diced; peeling is optional, though leaving the skin on adds extra color and fiber.
Can I substitute cider vinegar with white vinegar?
You can, but cider vinegar provides a fruitier tang that pairs better with the apples.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
Is this salad gluten-free?
The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but you should always check the label on your fat-free mayonnaise to be sure.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, adding grilled chicken or chickpeas would make this a more substantial meal.
Is this a good side dish for picnics?
Yes, its refreshing nature makes it a great side dish, though it should be kept in a cooler until serving.
How should I stir the salad before serving?
Give it a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing that may have settled at the bottom during chilling.
Can I use baby carrots?
Yes, but you will need to slice them into thin matchsticks to maintain the intended texture.
What should I do if the salad is too dry?
You can add an extra tablespoon of fat-free mayo or a splash of cider vinegar if you prefer a wetter consistency.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, walnuts or pecans would add an excellent additional crunch and flavor.
Is this salad suitable for Weight Watchers?
Yes, it is explicitly tagged as a Weight Watchers friendly recipe.
What category does this recipe fall under?
It is categorized as a salad and can be served as a light snack or a side dish.
Can I freeze this salad?
No, freezing is not recommended as it will ruin the crisp texture of the apples and carrots.
What makes this salad 'delightful'?
The combination of the crisp texture and the sweet yet tangy dressing creates a satisfying and refreshing eating experience.