Carrot Salad with Apricots and Pecans

Looking for a healthy, easy-to-make salad that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion? This Carrot Salad with Apricots and Pecans combines crunchy grated carrots, naturally sweet dried apricots, and toasted pecans for an irresistible salad that’s both nutritious and delicious. The creamy dressing made with sour cream and mayonnaise adds the perfect touch of richness while keeping the salad light and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a side dish for grilled meats, a healthy lunch option, or a flavorful addition to your holiday table, this salad is the answer. With its quick prep time and simple ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Perfect for meal prep, picnics, and weeknight dinners, this carrot salad is packed with fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite proteins. Easy carrot salad recipe, toasted pecans, and dried apricots make this a standout choice for health-conscious eaters and flavor lovers alike.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 lb (5 large) carrots, coarsely grated or julienned
• 1/2 cup (3 oz) dried apricots, diced
• 1/2 cup pecans, toasted in a dry skillet and coarsely chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1 large or 2 small garlic cloves (to taste)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably real mayo)
• 1/8 tsp sea salt (to taste)
• A pinch of freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Grate or julienne the carrots, dice the dried apricots, and chop the toasted pecans (don’t skip the toasting step – it enhances the flavor of the pecans). Add all the ingredients to a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the garlic, sour cream, mayonnaise, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the dressing is smooth and fully mixed.
3. Assemble the Salad: Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture, and toss to coat evenly. Adjust the seasoning if needed and serve immediately.

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Tips

• Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and gives them a satisfying crunch. Simply heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
• Carrot Texture: You can either grate the carrots for a finer texture or julienne them for a bit more crunch. Both options work great in this salad.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nuts: If you don’t have pecans, you can easily substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios for a different flavor profile.
• Dried Fruit: Swap the apricots with other dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or golden berries for a twist on the sweetness.
• Dressing: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream, or add a bit of honey to the dressing for an extra touch of sweetness.

FAQs

• Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the salad and store it in the fridge for a few hours before serving. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the carrots crisp.
• Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried ones? Fresh apricots have a different texture and moisture content than dried ones, but they can still work in the salad. Just dice them into small pieces and adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as part of a picnic spread.
• Meal Prep: It can also be served as a light lunch on its own or combined with quinoa or couscous for added protein.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Carrot Salad with Apricots and Pecans combines the sweetness of apricots, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the freshness of carrots into a bright, flavorful dish. The creamy dressing complements the natural flavors of the salad without overpowering them, making it a perfect balance of taste and texture. It’s quick, easy, and offers a unique twist on classic carrot salads, ideal for any occasion.