This crunchy apple & carrot salad features a refreshing blend of sweet apples, crisp carrots, and juicy mandarin segments, all coated in a creamy, citrus dressing. The perfect balance of flavors makes this salad an ideal side dish for any meal or a light, refreshing snack.

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Ingredients:

• 1 red apple, cut into matchstick pieces
• 1 green apple, cut into matchstick pieces
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (to prevent browning of the apples)
• 2 cups matchstick carrots
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, sweetened
• 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

1️⃣ Slice the Apples: Cut the red and green apples into matchstick pieces. Place them in a bowl.
2️⃣ Prevent Browning: Pour the lemon juice over the apples and toss well to coat. Let the apples sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the lemon juice. This will prevent them from browning.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

3️⃣ Add the Carrots and Onions: In a large mixing bowl, combine the matchstick carrots, diced onion, and dried cranberries.

Step 3: Add the Apples

4️⃣ Mix the Apples: After the apples have soaked in lemon juice, add them to the bowl with the other ingredients and mix them gently.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

5️⃣ Prepare the Dressing: In the same mixing bowl, add the vanilla yogurt, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined and the ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 5: Finish with Mandarins

6️⃣ Fold in Mandarins: Gently fold in the drained mandarin segments. Be careful not to break them up too much.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

7️⃣ Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.

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Serving Tips

• This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted pork, or a light fish dish.
• For extra crunch, add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans just before serving.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

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Nutritional Tip: This salad is rich in fiber from the apples and carrots, and the cranberries add a nice dose of antioxidants. It’s the perfect side dish for a healthy and vibrant meal! 🍏🥕