Carrot and Raisin Salad I

Carrot and Raisin Salad I Recipe - A Healthy and Delicious Salad from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Carrot and Raisin Salad is a classic dish that combines the sweetness of raisins with the crunch of shredded carrots, all brought together with a tangy dressing. This refreshing salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

Carrot and Raisin Salad has been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades. It is believed to have originated in the southern United States, where it was often served as a side dish at picnics and potlucks. The combination of sweet raisins and crunchy carrots was a hit with both kids and adults, making it a staple in many households.

Ingredients

3 cups shredded carrot
0.5 cup low-calorie dressing
0.33 cup seedless raisins (1.5 oz (43 g) box)
0.25 tsp salt
sugar substitute equivalent to 6 tsp sugar
lettuce leaves

How to prepare

Combine all ingredients, except lettuce, thoroughly.
Cover the bowl.
Chill for 2 hours or longer before serving.
Serve on a bed of crisp lettuce.

Variations

Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch.
Try using a different type of dried fruit, such as cranberries or apricots, in place of the raisins.
Experiment with different dressings, such as a honey mustard or balsamic vinaigrette.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to shred the carrots finely for the best texture in the salad.

- Adjust the amount of sugar in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.

- For added flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Carrot and Raisin Salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a great addition to a picnic or barbecue spread.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a great Carrot and Raisin Salad is to thoroughly combine all the ingredients and chill the salad before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a refreshing dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have raisins on hand, you can substitute with dried cranberries or chopped apricots. You can also use a different type of dressing, such as a creamy ranch or tangy Italian.

Make Ahead Tips

Carrot and Raisin Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Carrot and Raisin Salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for a beautiful presentation. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a drizzle of extra dressing.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, such as chicken or pork. It also goes well with other summer salads, such as potato salad or coleslaw.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Carrot and Raisin Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It is best served chilled, so be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Carrot and Raisin Salad contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

Carrot and Raisin Salad is a low-carb dish, with most of the carbohydrates coming from the carrots and raisins. One serving of this salad contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This salad is low in fat, with most of the fat coming from the dressing. One serving of Carrot and Raisin Salad contains approximately 3 grams of fat.

Proteins

Carrot and Raisin Salad is a low-protein dish, with most of the protein coming from the raisins. One serving of this salad contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrot and Raisin Salad is a good source of vitamin A, thanks to the carrots. It also contains small amounts of vitamin C and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check the ingredients in the dressing for any potential allergens.

Summary

Carrot and Raisin Salad is a low-calorie, low-fat dish that is a good source of vitamin A. It is a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.

Summary

Carrot and Raisin Salad is a classic dish that is both healthy and delicious. With its sweet and tangy flavors, it is sure to be a hit at your next meal or gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Carrot and Raisin Salad. It was tucked away in an old recipe book that belonged to my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. As I flipped through the pages, I couldn't help but be drawn to the simple yet enticing combination of ingredients in this particular recipe.

Mrs. Jenkins was known for her delicious salads, and I had always admired her culinary skills. She had a way of combining flavors and textures that always left me wanting more. So when I stumbled upon her recipe for Carrot and Raisin Salad, I knew I had to give it a try.

I had never made a salad quite like this before. The idea of combining sweet raisins with crunchy carrots seemed intriguing to me. I could just imagine the burst of flavors in every bite. And so, with Mrs. Jenkins' recipe in hand, I set out to recreate her masterpiece in my own kitchen.

As I gathered the ingredients - carrots, raisins, mayonnaise, sugar, and lemon juice - I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. This was going to be a culinary adventure unlike any other I had embarked on before. I carefully followed Mrs. Jenkins' instructions, grating the carrots, soaking the raisins, and mixing everything together in a large bowl.

The colors of the salad were vibrant and inviting. The bright orange of the carrots contrasted beautifully with the dark purple of the raisins. The creamy mayonnaise coated everything in a luscious sheen, while the sugar and lemon juice added just the right amount of sweetness and tang.

As I took my first bite of the Carrot and Raisin Salad, I was transported to a world of flavor and texture. The crunch of the carrots, the chewiness of the raisins, and the creamy dressing all worked together in perfect harmony. It was a taste sensation unlike any other, and I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

I couldn't wait to share my creation with my family and friends. I knew they would love it just as much as I did. And sure enough, when I served the Carrot and Raisin Salad at our next family gathering, it was a hit. Everyone raved about how delicious and unique it was, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had successfully recreated Mrs. Jenkins' recipe.

Since then, I have made the Carrot and Raisin Salad countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. It has become a beloved dish in our family, a reminder of the culinary adventures I have embarked on over the years.

And so, as I sit here reminiscing about the day I first discovered this recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for the inspiration and joy it has brought into my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am thankful for the opportunity to learn from talented cooks like Mrs. Jenkins.

I may have acquired this recipe from her old recipe book, but the memories and experiences I have gained from making it are truly priceless. The Carrot and Raisin Salad will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of curiosity and the joy of exploring new flavors and ingredients in the kitchen.