Carrot Ambrosia

Prep: 10 min

A vibrant, sweet and tangy carrot ambrosia combines shredded carrots, coconut, and a creamy lemon honey dressing, perfect for light desserts or refreshing side dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 4 c. grated carrots
  • 1/4 c. lemon juice
  • 3 Tbsp. honey
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 c. sour cream
  • 1 (3 1/2 oz.) can coconut

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you prefer a sweeter version, you can increase the honey or add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. Freshly grated carrots provide the best flavor, but pre-packaged grated carrots can save time. This dish can also be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Carrot Ambrosia makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or a refreshing snack dip for gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Mamie Rhodes' Jam Cake for a sweet finish to your meal. For a more balanced plate, serve alongside a light salad or grilled vegetables to complement the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispness of the carrots, avoid adding the coconut until just before serving. This dish is best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat; simply serve cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Carrot Ambrosia contains roughly 312 calories, with 9g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (62% of the Daily Value) and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2119mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).

312 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.5g 17% DV
Total Fat 0.3g
Carbs 72g 26% DV
Fiber 2.7g 10% DV
Sugar 30.2g 60% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2119.1mg 92% DV
Potassium 629.2mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 21.6mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 560.3mcg 62% DV
Vitamin C 1.8mg 2% DV
Calcium 328mg 25% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by substituting honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and using a dairy-free sour cream alternative. This will still give you a delicious balance of flavors while accommodating vegan diets.

How can I add more flavor to this dish?

To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of nutmeg. You can also mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Carrot Ambrosia is great for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge. Just remember to keep the coconut separate until serving to maintain freshness. It can be a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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