Carrot Salad(Low Calorie)
A refreshing low-calorie carrot salad with a zesty orange and mustard dressing, complemented by sweet apple and cranberries, perfect for a light, healthy snack or side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine orange juice and mustard in a small bowl to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine grated carrot, chopped apple dipped in Sure-Jell Ever Fresh, and chopped dried cranberries.
- Pour the dressing over the ingredients in the large bowl.
- Toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate until chilled.
- Serve the salad the same day for best freshness.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a dash of black pepper to the dressing. You can substitute fresh orange juice for the concentrate if preferred, adjusting the amount for sweetness. For added texture, try incorporating chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds, which also pair beautifully with this dish. If you have leftover carrots, you can use them in other salads or dishes like Spiced Red Cabbage(No Dairy, Low-Fat).
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing carrot salad as a light side dish at lunch or dinner, or as part of a picnic spread. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, and can be complemented by a slice of crusty bread. For a full meal, consider adding protein like chickpeas or grilled shrimp. It also makes a great accompaniment to vegan recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat it, warm it gently in a microwave, avoiding overheating to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. Avoid freezing, as the texture will change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrot Salad(Low Calorie) contains roughly 90 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value).
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 prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and add the dressing right before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh. This way, the flavors will meld nicely without compromising the texture.
What can I use instead of dried cranberries?
If you don't have dried cranberries, consider using raisins, chopped dates, or even dried cherries for a similar sweetness. Each alternative will slightly alter the flavor profile, but they will still work well with the other ingredients in the salad.
Is this salad suitable for a low-calorie diet?
Absolutely! This carrot salad is low in calories, thanks to its fresh ingredients and minimal use of dressing. It's a great option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet while enjoying flavorful meals. You can further reduce the calorie count by adjusting the amount of orange juice concentrate.
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).