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This Carrot Raisin Salad is a simple, refreshing, and slightly sweet side dish that’s both crunchy and creamy. The shredded carrots provide a crisp texture, while the raisins add natural sweetness, making this salad a delightful balance of flavors.

Tossed in a light, tangy dressing, this dish is easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or everyday meals.
Whether served on its own, as a side for BBQ dishes, or as a light snack, this salad is a healthy and nostalgic classic that never goes out of style!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crunchy & Sweet: The carrots and raisins perfectly balance textures.
- Creamy Yet Light: The dressing is refreshing without being too heavy.
- Quick & Easy: Just 10 minutes of prep with no cooking required.
- Great for Meal Prep: Stays fresh and crunchy in the fridge.
- Kid-Friendly: Naturally sweet and simple flavors that everyone loves.

Ingredients Breakdown
For the Salad:
- Carrots: Freshly shredded for the best texture and sweetness.
- Raisins: Plump and chewy, adding natural sweetness.
- Pineapple (Optional): Adds a juicy, tropical twist.
- Walnuts or Sunflower Seeds (Optional): These add crunch and healthy fats.
For the Creamy Dressing:
- Greek Yogurt or Mayo: A creamy base that keeps it light.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Enhances the natural sweetness.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a refreshing tang to balance the flavors.
- Salt: Salt brings out the flavors and prevents the salad from tasting flat.
Carrot Raisin Salad

A crunchy, naturally sweet carrot raisin salad with a light, creamy dressing, perfect as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 cups carrots, shredded
- ½ cup raisins
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
- ¼ cup walnuts or sunflower seeds (optional)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayo
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Shred carrots using a box grater or food processor. If using pineapple, drain excess juice.
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), honey, lemon juice, and salt.
- Assemble the Salad: Toss shredded carrots, raisins, and optional pineapple and walnuts in a large bowl.
Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well. - Chill & Serve: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayo or coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
- Make It Nut-Free: Swap walnuts for pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Add Extra Flavor: A pinch of cinnamon or grated ginger can enhance the taste.
- Make It Heartier: Add shredded apples for extra crunch and natural sweetness.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
4Amount Per Serving: Calories: 180Total Fat: 7gCarbohydrates: 24gFiber: 4gProtein: 4g
Pro Tip After Making
For the best texture, let the salad chill for at least 15 minutes before serving—this helps the flavors meld and makes the raisins plumper!
Best Ways to Serve This Salad
- As a Side Dish: Perfect with grilled chicken, BBQ, or sandwiches.
- At a Picnic or Potluck: A crowd-pleaser that stays fresh.
- As a Snack: Enjoy on its own for a light, healthy bite.
- With a Main Meal: Great alongside roasted meats or veggie burgers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I use pre-shredded carrots?
Yes, but freshly shredded carrots have a better texture and flavor.
What if I don’t like raisins?
Try using dried cranberries, chopped dates, or golden raisins instead!
Wrapping it up
This Carrot Raisin Salad is a sweet, creamy, and crunchy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it as a quick side, a meal prep salad, or a healthy snack, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Try it today and enjoy a classic, refreshing salad with a delicious twist!