Carrot Salad with Raisins Recipe
When it comes to clean, refreshing, and nutrient-rich sides, this Carrot Salad with Raisins checks all the boxes. It’s vibrant, crunchy, naturally sweet, and tossed in a zesty lemon-honey dressing that brings it all together without the need for mayo or heavy ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a fiber-packed side dish, or a meal prep addition, this salad delivers both flavor and nutrition.
Unlike traditional carrot salads loaded with mayo and sugar, this version relies on simple whole-food ingredients—freshly shredded carrots, plump raisins, a hint of natural sweetness, and heart-healthy olive oil. It’s quick to prepare and keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for busy weekdays or a healthy potluck option.
Ingredients:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and shredded
- ½ cup raisins (golden or regular)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (optional)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or pure maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Carrot Salad with Raisins – Step-by-Step
1. Shred the Carrots Fresh
Start by peeling the carrots and shredding them using a box grater or the shredding attachment on your food processor. Freshly grated carrots taste sweeter and maintain better texture than pre-shredded ones.
2. Soften the Raisins (Optional but Recommended)
Place the raisins in a small bowl of hot water and let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes. This plumps them up and makes them juicier. After soaking, drain and gently pat them dry with a paper towel before using.
3. Make the Lemon-Honey Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This bright, tangy dressing gives the salad its signature fresh flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of the carrots.
4. Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded carrots, soaked raisins, chopped parsley, and sunflower seeds if using. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until everything is evenly coated and glistening.
5. Chill for Flavor Development
Cover the salad and place it in the fridge for at least 15–30 minutes before serving. The flavors meld together as it chills, and the carrots soak up the sweet and tangy notes of the dressing. You can also make this a few hours ahead—it gets better with time.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- No mayo or added sugar
- Vibrant and naturally sweet
- Loaded with fiber and vitamin A
- Perfect for meal prep
- Gluten-free and vegetarian
- Easy to customize with extras like nuts or apples
This salad holds well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great choice for make-ahead lunches, side dishes for grilled proteins, or even a fresh component in a wrap or grain bowl.
Pro Tips for Maximum Flavor
- Use fresh lemon juice—bottled doesn’t have the same brightness.
- Toast the seeds lightly before adding for a nutty crunch.
- Add shredded green apple or orange zest for a fruity twist.
- Want a touch of creaminess? Add a dollop of Greek yogurt to the dressing.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving — Serves 4)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 145 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Total Sugars | 11 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 70 mg |
| Vitamin A | 270% DV |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
Note: Based on standard ingredient estimates. Adjust if using different sweeteners or seed options.
Healthy Carrot Salad with Raisins: A Simple Way to Eat Clean
This light and easy carrot raisin salad makes a smart, satisfying addition to any healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re following a vegetarian diet, trying to eat more raw foods, or simply want something colorful and delicious on your plate, this dish works for any occasion. It’s easy enough to throw together for a weeknight dinner and elegant enough to serve at brunch or a holiday table.
So next time you’re staring down a bag of carrots, skip the roast and go fresh—you’ll love the refreshing crunch and natural sweetness in every bite.
