With the satisfying crunch of carrots, the juicy burst of apples, and the delightful chewiness of raisins, the Carrot Apple Salad is an old-fashioned favorite that is both refreshing and wholesome. It’s time for this vintage recipe to have its comeback.

Carrot Apple Salad

Carrot salads always made an appearance at potlucks and gatherings when I was growing up. My mom made her carrot salad with raisins and apples; if I remember correctly, I’ve had one made with pineapple too.

The carrot apple salad is the one I think of first – as the quintessential carrot salad recipe. I think raisins are a requirement there too.

Overhead shot of chopped apples, shredded carrots, and mixed raisins in a glass bowl

I hadn’t had a carrot salad in years when I made this one and I shredded the carrots a little too finely, but the family devoured it regardless.

Next time I’ll use a larger grater or maybe just buy a bag of the larger matchstick-size shredded carrots. However you make it, it’s an easy side dish that works with pretty much any meal.

Overhead shot of tossed carrots, apples, and mixed raisins, served in a glass bowl

Raw Carrot Salad

You’ll need the following ingredients to make this recipe:

carrots
raisins
apple
mayonnaise
fresh lemon juice
sugar
kosher salt

Overhead shot of tossed carrots, apples, mixed raisins, and mayonnaise, served in a glass bowl

Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe

In a large bowl, combine the carrots, raisins, and apple. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, and salt.

Add the dressing to the bowl with the carrots and toss well to mix throughout. Serve immediately.

Overhead shot of tossed carrots, apples, mixed raisins, and mayonnaise, mixed in a glass bowl

Vintage Recipes

Old-fashioned bean salads are made with a mix of green beans, butter beans, and kidney beans in a tangy dressing. Three and four bean salad recipes are timeless potluck favorites and I’m pretty sure that everyone’s grandmother has a similar recipe.

Creamy and fresh with a bit of tang, this German cucumber salad brings back happy memories. Nothing says summer Sunday dinner at grandma’s house quite like this old-fashioned salad.

Overhead shot of carrot apple salad, served in a white bowl

With crunchy greens, juicy tomatoes, tender peas, cheddar cheese, plenty of bacon and eggs, and a bright, smoky dressing, this old fashioned 7 layer salad delivers more than you might be expecting.

Sweet peas, salty bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese coated in a creamy, tangy dressing add up to an easy, tasty summer side dish. This bacon pea salad is a timeless favorite and a great addition to any meal.