Are you looking for inspiration for a quick and easy side dish? That goes along with almost any dish? That is also surprising and healthy at the same time? Then you should definitely try this carrot-apple salad. Ready in no time! In addition, it fits both with winter food such as sausage and as a salad at your summer barbecue. At the bottom of the basic recipe you will find unique tips to finish this salad perfectly. Just like some other surprising ideas for creatively incorporating apple into your menu.

Tips and ideas for your perfect carrot-apple salad

Which type of apple should you use?

There are so many different apple varieties. Does it really matter which kind I use? Are there apple varieties that are absolutely recommended? Or that are absolutely avoidable?

My favorites for this type of salad are Golden-delicious and Pink Lady. Both are relatively neutral but still a little sour. I used Golden-delicious for the recipe in the photo. You should know, the carrots are sweet on their own. And we want to create a bit of a contrast. So I wouldn't do a real sweet apple that you would bake or use in a dessert, for example.

A really sour apple variety would then become too dominant in taste. The aim is to place a fresh and fruity accent against the carrots. A little sweet, a little sour. But not predominant in one direction or the other. But of course tastes are different and the best thing is to just try it out.

Would you like to learn more about the different types of apples and their characteristics? Be sure to take a look at the articles below:

The seasoning of your carrot-apple salad

The seasoning of this basic version carrot-apple salad is very simple. But of course you can also be creative here and add special flavors. In this version I used white wine vinegar, and very little salt and pepper.

However, there are plenty of alternatives. For example, you can also use lemon juice or lime juice for a Mediterranean citrus taste. Also other types of vinegar such as rice vinegar or raspberry vinegar are also very valid alternatives. Do you like spicy? Then mix in a little olive oil seasoned with chili peppers. Do you have any other good ideas? Then be sure to let us know!

The vinegar (or lemon juice) also prevents the grated apple from turning brown. It is therefore important that you mix it relatively quickly under the grated carrots and apple.

A very special variant for the seasoning is wasabi ginger mayonnaise. It brings a special Japanese accent to this classic side dish. Plus, apple and ginger go well together. If you're a bit more adventurous, you should definitely give this a try!

Another idea for seasoning is using some raisins or sultanas instead of the sugar. I didn't do this yet, but it certainly is on my list for a next try!

More surprising.apple

For me, apple is not just a fruit. Moreover, I use it frequently to flavor up many dishes and salads. So, if interested, please have a look at the following inspiring recipes: