As a child, I remember my grandmother’s homemade carrot raisin salad. It was a staple at family gatherings and picnics. The fresh carrots and sweet golden raisins were irresistible.
Key Takeaways
- Carrot raisin salad is a simple, sweet, and crunchy side dish made with fresh shredded carrots and golden raisins.
- It’s a classic recipe that often evokes fond childhood memories and is a popular choice for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings.
- The salad can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for busy cooks.
- Carrot raisin salad is a healthy and versatile dish that can be customized with the addition of pineapple, apples, nuts, or seeds.
- This salad is a great way to incorporate more vegetables and fiber into your diet while enjoying a delicious and nostalgic treat.
What is Carrot Raisin Salad?
Carrot raisin salad is a beloved side dish that has been enjoyed for many years. It combines the crunch of fresh carrots with the sweetness of golden raisins. This mix creates a treat that many remember fondly from their childhood.
A Classic Side Dish with a Unique Flavor Combination
This salad is simple yet delightful, perfect for any time. The earthy carrots and sweet raisins blend beautifully. This makes it a favorite in many homes.
A Nostalgic Treat from Childhood
For many, carrot raisin salad brings back happy memories of family times and picnics. It has been a favorite for over 50 years. Its lasting popularity shows its timeless appeal and the comfort it brings.
Carrot Raisin Salad Ingredients
The classic carrot raisin salad is made of just two things: fresh carrots and sweet golden raisins. These simple ingredients come together to make a side dish that’s both crunchy and full of flavor.
Fresh Carrots: The Crunchy Base
Freshly shredded carrots form the base of this salad. They add a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the raisins’ sweetness. The carrots also bring a bright orange color to the dish, making it look great.
Sweet Golden Raisins: A Burst of Flavor
The golden raisins add a sweet and juicy flavor to the salad. They work well with the fresh carrots, creating a balance of taste that’s both comforting and enjoyable.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh Carrots | 1 pound |
| Sweet Golden Raisins | 1 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Honey | 1 Tablespoon |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 1 teaspoon |
Easy Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe
Making a tasty carrot raisin salad is easy and fun. This recipe makes a great side dish for any event. Let’s get started on making this classic carrot raisin salad.
First, you’ll need to gather the following simple ingredients:
- 4 cups shredded fresh carrots
- 1 cup golden raisins
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
In a large bowl, mix the shredded carrots and golden raisins. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, honey, water, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the carrot and raisin mix. Stir gently until everything is coated. Cover the bowl and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors blend well.
After chilling, the carrot raisin salad is ready to eat. This easy recipe makes about six cups, serving up to eight people. It’s perfect for your next gathering or picnic.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 8 people |
| Calories | 216kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 19g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 9g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 4g |
| Trans Fat | 0.04g |
| Cholesterol | 9mg |
| Sodium | 181mg |
| Potassium | 320mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Vitamin A | 10706IU |
| Vitamin C | 5mg |
| Calcium | 28mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Nutritional Value of Carrot Raisin Salad
Carrot Raisin Salad is a nutritious side dish. Carrots are full of vitamin A and fiber. Raisins add potassium and fiber to the mix. Together, they make a tasty and healthy choice for any meal.
A Healthy Side Dish Option
A serving of Carrot Raisin Salad (136g) has 153 calories. Only 7 calories come from fat (5%). It’s low in saturated fat (0.2g, 1% DV) and cholesterol (1.4mg, 0% DV).
The salad is rich in dietary fiber (3.6g, 14% DV) and potassium (524.6mg, 14% DV).
Packed with Vitamins and Fiber
Carrot Raisin Salad is also low in calories and fat. It’s a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. Carrots, the main ingredient, are a great source of vitamin A.
The salad also has vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc.
With its nutrient-rich profile and low calorie count, Carrot Raisin Salad is a healthy side dish option. It’s perfect for a balanced diet.
Variations and Customizations
The classic Carrot Raisin Salad is tasty on its own. But, you can make it even better. Try adding pineapple tidbits or chunks for a sweet, tropical twist. Or, add shredded apples for a natural sweetness that goes well with carrots and raisins.
Want more crunch? Add nuts like pecans, almonds, or walnuts, and sunflower seeds. They make the salad more interesting to eat. Plus, they add extra nutrients and flavors.
Adding Pineapple or Apples for Extra Sweetness
Make the Carrot Raisin Salad sweeter by adding pineapple tidbits or chunks. The pineapple’s juicy, tropical taste balances the carrots and raisins. Shredded apples can also add a fresh, crisp touch to the salad.
Incorporating Nuts or Seeds for Crunch
Looking for more texture in your Carrot Raisin Salad? Try nuts or seeds. Chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts give a nice crunch. Sunflower seeds add a nutty flavor. These add-ons make the salad more fun to eat and boost its nutritional value.
Experimenting with these changes lets you make the Carrot Raisin Salad your own. You can create a side dish or salad that you’ll love.
Carrot Raisin Salad as a Potluck or Picnic Favorite
The carrot raisin salad is a top pick for side dishes at gatherings. It’s easy to make and tastes great. This salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and more because of its creamy texture and sweet crunch.
This salad is also easy to take along. It stays fresh and can be made ahead of time. With only 10 minutes to prepare, it’s a breeze to make for any event.
The carrot raisin salad brings back happy memories for many. It’s a classic dish that feels like home. At any gathering, it’s sure to win over guests of all ages.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carrots | 4 cups, grated |
| Raisins | 1 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/8 teaspoon |
The carrot raisin salad is a hit at any event with its bright color and tasty mix. It’s easy to carry and prepare, making it a great dish to share with everyone.
Storing and Serving Carrot Raisin Salad
Carrot raisin salad is a tasty side dish that’s easy to make ahead. It’s perfect for meal planning and parties. Its unique taste makes it a hit at any gathering.
To keep the salad fresh, put it in an airtight container and chill it for up to 4 days. It’s great for meal prep or potlucks. Just stir it gently before serving to mix the flavors well.
This salad is refreshing and pairs well with many dishes. It’s great with grilled meats or veggie dishes. The mix of crunchy carrots, sweet raisins, and creamy dressing is a crowd-pleaser.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 289 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Cholesterol | 6mg |
| Sodium | 333mg |
| Potassium | 721mg |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sugar | 15g |
| Vitamin A | 21393 IU |
| Vitamin C | 11mg |
| Calcium | 55mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Follow these tips to enjoy carrot raisin salad anytime. It’s a versatile and easy dish to add to your meals.
The History of Carrot Raisin Salad
Carrot raisin salad has a long and interesting history. It has been a favorite on the Chick-fil-A menu for over 40 years. Even though it’s not in Chick-fil-A restaurants anymore, you can still find it at Truett’s Grill and Dwarf House in Atlanta, Georgia.
S. Truett Cathy, Chick-fil-A’s founder, created the salad in 1967. It became a hit, loved for its creamy, sweet, and tangy mix. But in 2013, it was removed from most Chick-fil-A places to make room for new items.
Now, you can make the original Chick-fil-A carrot raisin salad at home. It has sour cream, mayonnaise, onion, honey or sugar, lemon juice, raisins, carrots, pineapple, salt, and pepper.
Even though it’s not as common as it used to be, carrot raisin salad is still a classic dish. You can find it in many places, from the Southern United States to Brazil, Korea, Russia, India, Bulgaria, Poland, and the Middle East.
Conclusion
Carrot Raisin Salad is a classic and beloved side dish. It mixes the crunch of fresh carrots with the sweetness of golden raisins. This versatile salad is easy to make, nutritious, and perfect for many occasions.
It’s great for potlucks or picnics. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, Carrot Raisin Salad is a delightful treat. It’s sure to make your taste buds happy.
The salad combines vibrant carrots, plump raisins, and optional add-ins like apples, nuts, and cranberries. This mix of flavors and textures pleases many. It’s also packed with nutrients and pairs well with grilled meats and vegetarian dishes.
Carrot Raisin Salad is a classic side dish that should be in your collection. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a healthy side dish. With its timeless appeal and endless customization, this salad will be a favorite in your kitchen.
FAQ
What is Carrot Raisin Salad?
Carrot Raisin Salad is a cold side dish that’s sweet and creamy. It’s great for BBQs or potlucks. It combines fresh, crunchy carrots with sweet golden raisins for a unique taste.
What are the main ingredients in Carrot Raisin Salad?
The key ingredients are shredded carrots and golden raisins. Carrots add crunch, while raisins bring sweetness and flavor.
How do you make Carrot Raisin Salad?
Making it is easy. Just mix shredded carrots, raisins, mayonnaise, honey, water, lemon juice, and a bit of salt. Chill it for 30 minutes before serving.
Is Carrot Raisin Salad a healthy side dish?
Yes, it’s a healthy choice. Carrots are full of vitamins, especially vitamin A, and are high in fiber. Raisins add potassium and fiber too.
Can you customize Carrot Raisin Salad?
Absolutely. You can add pineapple tidbits or shredded apples for sweetness. Nuts or sunflower seeds add crunch.
Why is Carrot Raisin Salad a popular choice for potlucks and picnics?
It’s loved for potlucks and picnics. It’s easy to make, transport, and share. Its creamy texture and sweet-crunchy mix are crowd-pleasers.
How long can Carrot Raisin Salad be stored?
You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for meal prep or events.
Does Carrot Raisin Salad have a long history?
Yes, it’s been on Chick-fil-A’s menu for 40 years. Though Chick-fil-A doesn’t serve it anymore, you can find it at Truett’s Grill and the Dwarf House in Atlanta.