If you’ve ever wished for a salad that’s light, naturally sweet, and has zero mayo, this Sweet Carrot Apple Raisin Salad is about to become your go-to. It’s a dish that sings with freshness, crunch, and just the right amount of sweetness. We’ll walk through why this simple salad is a perfect balance of fruity flavor and texture, how to make it, tips for pairing, and answer your most common questions. And yes, it’s totally mayo-free but doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to flavor.
Childhood Crunch – My Salad Memory
Carrots, Apples, and a Side of Nostalgia
Growing up in Michigan, my mom had a thing for fresh, easy salads. She wasn’t big on mayo, especially not in the heat of summer. Her go-to dish? A simple mix of shredded carrots, tart apples, and sweet raisins—always served in a chilled bowl. I can still picture her hands working that old box grater, chatting about garden plans while we waited for the raisins to soften in warm water.
We never called it anything fancy, but this Sweet Carrot Apple Raisin Salad was her classic. These days, I bring it to potlucks, just like she did. And trust me, it vanishes fast—just like her old handwritten recipe cards.
Why This Salad Works Without Mayo
What sets this dish apart is that it leans on natural ingredients—not creamy dressings—to do the heavy lifting. Carrots bring crunch, apples offer a juicy bite, and raisins give that chewy pop of sweetness. A touch of lemon juice keeps everything bright and fresh. If you’re into clean eating, this recipe is right up your alley.
You might also like this Hormone-Balancing Carrot Detox Salad if you’re after more vibrant carrot-based dishes or try Sweet and Sour Apple for another sweet-savory combo.
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Sweet Carrot Apple Raisin Salad (No Mayo!)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A light and refreshing carrot apple raisin salad made without mayo—perfect for warm days and healthy eating.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 1 large crisp apple, diced
- 1/3 cup raisins
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon or drizzle of honey
Instructions
- Soak raisins in warm water for 5 minutes, then drain.
- Shred the carrots and dice the apple.
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl and toss with lemon juice.
- Add optional cinnamon or honey if desired.
- Chill for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
To keep apples from browning, toss them in lemon juice immediately after dicing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minute
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: carrot salad, apple salad, no mayo salad, healthy, side dish
How to Make the Best No-Mayo Carrot Apple Salad
Ingredients That Matter

Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 1 large crisp apple (like Honeycrisp or Gala), diced
- 1/3 cup raisins
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon or honey drizzle
The raisins are soaked briefly to plump them—just cover in warm water for 5 minutes and drain. This step adds texture and boosts sweetness without any sugar.
For more fruit-forward snack ideas, check out these Colorful Fruit Skewers with Watermelon Salad Dip or try a chilled side like Viral Summer Watermelon Salad with Mint Feta.
Simple Steps, Bright Results
- Soak the raisins in warm water. Drain after 5 minutes.
- Shred carrots and dice the apple.
- Toss everything in a bowl with lemon juice.
- Add cinnamon or honey if using.
- Chill for 15 minutes before serving.
That’s it. No cooking, no mayo, just real flavors coming together fast.

Tips, Twists & Perfect Pairings
Make It Your Own
Want to switch it up? You can add chopped pecans or sunflower seeds for crunch. Prefer something creamier but still mayo-free? A dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of orange juice works beautifully too.
If you love earthy flavors, this Balthazar Beet Salad or Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables can bring more variety to your salad rotation.
What to Serve It With
This salad is a terrific side for grilled chicken, baked fish, or even veggie burgers. It’s ideal for picnics, lunchboxes, or Sunday meal prep. The sweetness pairs well with anything smoky or savory.
Planning a Mediterranean-inspired meal? Pair it with this Fattoush Salad with Pita Chips or finish things with Apple Crisp Bars for a fruity dessert.
FAQs About Sweet Carrot Apple Raisin Salad
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but add the apples just before serving to avoid browning. The carrots and raisins can be mixed a day in advance and stored covered in the fridge.
What kind of apple works best?
Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are great for sweetness and crunch. Granny Smith adds more tartness if that’s your thing.
Can I skip the raisins?
Totally! Try dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even diced pineapple for something different.
Is this salad vegan and gluten-free?
Absolutely. There’s no dairy, mayo, or gluten involved—just whole, fresh ingredients.