Crunchy Apple Carrot Slaw with Yogurt Dressing – Easy & Healthy

There’s something so nostalgic and comforting about a crisp, creamy slaw. It takes you back to family cookouts, warm summer afternoons, and maybe even that one picnic where everything just tasted better because it was made with love. This Crunchy Apple Carrot Slaw with Vanilla Yogurt Dressing is no ordinary salad—it’s a vibrant mix of crunchy carrots, sweet apples, juicy mandarins, and tangy cranberries all tied together with a creamy, lightly sweet vanilla yogurt dressing. It’s the kind of dish that makes you stop mid-bite and say, “Wow, what is this?”—in the best way possible.

What makes this slaw so special is its ability to balance flavors and textures effortlessly. You’ve got the natural sweetness of Red Delicious and Granny Smith apples playing off the tartness of cranberries. The carrots bring a hearty crunch, while the mandarins burst with juice in every bite. It’s light enough for a spring lunch but flavorful enough to hold its own on a fall dinner table. The creamy dressing, made with vanilla yogurt and a touch of mayo, sugar, salt, and pepper, ties everything together without overwhelming the natural flavors of the fruit and vegetables.

This recipe is inspired by a family gathering I attended a few years back. My aunt brought a simple fruit slaw that looked innocent enough but had everyone going back for seconds and asking for the recipe. Since then, I’ve played around with that idea, adding carrots for texture, cranberries for a little zing, and vanilla yogurt for a sweet and creamy base. It’s become my go-to when I want something colorful, refreshing, and a little different from the usual.

And let me tell you—this one is a showstopper. People are always surprised by how good it tastes, and they always ask for the recipe. The best part? It’s so easy to make, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Crunchy apple carrot slaw Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Crunchy Apple Carrot Slaw. First and foremost, it’s ridiculously easy to make. You don’t need any fancy kitchen tools or complicated techniques. If you can slice apples and stir things together in a bowl, you’re good to go. That alone makes it a winner in my book. But the real magic is in the flavor and texture.

This slaw brings layers of flavor to the table. The apples are crisp and slightly sweet. The Red Delicious apple brings a mellow, honey-like sweetness, while the Granny Smith offers a tart bite that keeps everything balanced. Then there’s the carrots, which add a neutral crunch that grounds the dish. The dried cranberries are little flavor bombs—tart, chewy, and just sweet enough to pop against the other ingredients.

And let’s not forget the creamy dressing. The vanilla yogurt is such an unexpected twist in a slaw dressing, but it works beautifully. It adds just the right amount of sweetness and creaminess without making the dish heavy. The mayonnaise adds a classic slaw flavor and helps emulsify the dressing, while the sugar, salt, and black pepper bring everything together with subtlety.

Another reason to love this recipe is that it’s kid-friendly. Kids love the sweetness from the fruit and the creamy dressing, and it’s a sneaky way to get them to eat more fruits and vegetables. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can serve it at a summer barbecue, bring it to a potluck, or just make a big bowl on Sunday and enjoy it as a side dish all week.

Finally, this dish is naturally vegetarian and easy to make halal-friendly. There are no complicated ingredients or meat-based elements to worry about. It’s inclusive, adaptable, and always a hit with a crowd.

Health Benefits of this Crunchy apple carrot slaw

Besides tasting fantastic, this slaw is packed with ingredients that are incredibly good for you. It’s one of those rare dishes where indulgence and nutrition live side-by-side in perfect harmony.

Let’s start with the apples. Both Red Delicious and Granny Smith apples are high in fiber, particularly in the skin, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full. They’re also rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system and promotes skin health. Granny Smith apples, in particular, have a lower glycemic index than other apple varieties, which means they won’t spike your blood sugar levels.

Carrots are another nutritional powerhouse in this recipe. They’re well-known for being rich in beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A. This nutrient is essential for eye health, immune function, and skin regeneration. Carrots are also low in calories but high in fiber, making them great for digestive health and weight management.

Cranberries, even when dried, still offer valuable health benefits. They contain antioxidants and compounds that help support urinary tract health. Just make sure to use sweetened dried cranberries in moderation to avoid too much added sugar. A third of a cup is the perfect amount for this recipe—it gives you that tart-sweet burst without overpowering the dish.

The mandarin oranges provide a boost of vitamin C and hydration. Since they’re canned, they’re available year-round and super convenient. Just be sure to drain them well to keep your slaw from getting watery.

Then there’s the dressing. Vanilla yogurt offers a dose of probiotics, which support gut health and immune function. It’s also a great source of calcium and protein, especially if you use a high-quality, low-fat version. Mixing it with just a little mayo adds richness without turning the dish into a calorie bomb.

Altogether, this slaw is low in calories, high in fiber, and full of vitamins. It’s a great way to nourish your body without compromising on flavor.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the best things about this Crunchy Apple Carrot Slaw is how fast it comes together. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s colorful, flavorful, and good to go. It’s perfect for when you’re short on time but still want to serve something impressive and satisfying.

Let’s break down the timing:

Total Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 3 hours (for best flavor and texture)
Total Time Including Chill: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Servings: Serves 6 to 8 people as a side dish

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional profile per serving (based on 8 servings):

Calories per serving: Approximately 160
Protein: 2.5 grams
Carbohydrates: 25 grams
Sugars: 17 grams (includes natural and added)
Fiber: 3 grams
Fat: 6 grams
Saturated Fat: 1.5 grams
Cholesterol: 5 mg
Sodium: 170 mg
Vitamin C: Over 40% of your daily recommended intake
Vitamin A: Over 70% of your daily recommended intake
Calcium: 10% of your daily recommended intake

This recipe is a great example of how nutritious can still mean delicious. Thanks to the combination of fruit, vegetables, and yogurt, you’re getting a well-rounded bite of vitamins, fiber, and just enough natural sugars to keep your energy up. It’s also relatively low in fat and calories, which makes it a fantastic addition to any meal—especially when you’re looking for something lighter and refreshing.

If you’re feeding a larger group, you can easily double the recipe without much extra prep time. And if you’re meal prepping for the week, you’ll be glad to know that this slaw holds up well in the fridge, staying crisp and flavorful for several days.

Ingredients List of this Crunchy apple carrot slaw

What makes this recipe so wonderfully simple is its short list of ingredients—each one chosen for a reason, contributing something important to the final dish. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why.

1 Red Delicious apple
This apple adds a mild, sweet flavor and a soft crunch. Its deep red skin also adds a pop of color to the salad.

1 Granny Smith apple
This green apple is tart and crisp, balancing out the sweetness of the Red Delicious. The combination of the two creates a beautiful flavor harmony.

2 tablespoons lemon juice
Lemon juice prevents the apples from browning and adds a bright, fresh acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the dressing.

2 cups matchstick carrots (pre-cut or homemade)
Carrots provide the base crunch in this slaw. You can use pre-cut matchsticks for convenience or slice them thinly by hand or with a mandoline.

¼ cup yellow onion, finely diced
Onions add a bit of bite and balance out the sweetness of the fruit. Make sure to dice them finely so they don’t overpower the other flavors.

⅓ cup dried sweetened cranberries
Cranberries add chewiness and a pop of tart-sweet flavor that really lifts the salad.

½ cup vanilla yogurt
This is the base of the dressing. It brings creaminess and a mild sweetness that ties all the ingredients together. Look for a yogurt with natural vanilla flavor and not too much added sugar.

¼ cup mayonnaise
Just enough to make the dressing a bit richer and give it that traditional slaw texture. You can use light mayo if you prefer.

1 tablespoon sugar
A touch of sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit and rounds out the dressing.

¼ teaspoon salt
Salt sharpens all the flavors and keeps the dish from tasting flat.

¼ teaspoon black pepper
Black pepper adds a little warmth and depth to the dressing.

1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained
Mandarins are juicy, sweet, and citrusy. Make sure to drain them well before adding them to the salad to keep it from getting watery.

These ingredients are all easy to find and affordable. Most are pantry staples or fridge regulars, which means you may already have them on hand.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients lined up, let’s walk through how to make this Crunchy Apple Carrot Slaw from start to finish. Each step is straightforward and doesn’t require any special culinary experience—just a bit of chopping, stirring, and patience while it chills. For best results, try to follow the order of steps as written below. This ensures your apples stay fresh and your flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Start by washing both apples thoroughly. You’ll want to keep the skins on for extra color and fiber, but make sure to remove any wax coating or residue from the store.

Next, core the apples and cut them into matchsticks. You can do this by first slicing each apple into thin slices, then stacking a few slices at a time and cutting them lengthwise into thin strips. If you have a mandoline or a julienne slicer, this step can be even faster. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly uniform—rustic charm is part of this slaw’s appeal.

As soon as you’ve cut your apples, toss them in a medium-sized bowl with the lemon juice. This is a crucial step. The lemon juice not only prevents the apples from browning, but also adds a subtle citrusy zing that enhances the overall flavor of the slaw. Let the apples sit in the lemon juice for about five minutes while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Combine the Vegetables and Fruit

In a large mixing bowl, add the matchstick carrots. If you’re using pre-cut matchstick carrots, you can simply toss them in as is. If you’re cutting your own, aim for thin, even strips similar in size to your apple matchsticks. This ensures an even texture throughout the salad.

To the bowl of carrots, add the finely diced yellow onion. Even though it’s just a quarter cup, the onion brings a slight savory bite that balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients. Be sure to dice it very finely so that it doesn’t overwhelm the dish. If you’re not a huge fan of raw onion, you can soak the diced pieces in cold water for about 5 minutes to mellow their flavor before adding them to the bowl.

Now toss in the dried sweetened cranberries. These chewy, tart little gems offer a wonderful contrast to the crisp textures and sweet notes in the slaw. Give everything a gentle stir so the ingredients begin to mingle.

Step 3: Add the Apples

After the apples have soaked in lemon juice for five minutes, it’s time to add them to the mixing bowl with the carrots, onion, and cranberries. Don’t worry if there’s still a little lemon juice clinging to the apple pieces—it just adds more brightness to the final flavor.

Gently fold the apples in with the rest of the ingredients. Try not to stir too aggressively here. You want to maintain the integrity of the apple matchsticks and avoid breaking them into smaller pieces.

At this stage, your bowl will already look gorgeous. The orange carrots, red cranberries, green and red apples, and flecks of yellow onion all combine into a vibrant, colorful medley that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Step 4: Mix the Dressing

Now for the creamy dressing that brings it all together. In a small separate bowl, combine the vanilla yogurt, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and well combined. Taste the dressing at this stage and adjust to your preference—if you like things a little tangier, you can add a splash more lemon juice. If you want a touch more sweetness, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup would work beautifully.

The vanilla yogurt may sound like an unusual choice in a slaw, but trust the process. It adds a delicate sweetness and creaminess that pairs incredibly well with the fresh fruit and crunchy veggies. The mayo gives it that traditional slaw texture and rounds out the flavor without making it too heavy.

Once the dressing is mixed, pour it over the contents of your large mixing bowl.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Using a large spoon or rubber spatula, gently stir the slaw until everything is evenly coated in the dressing. Again, try to mix gently to avoid bruising the apples or squishing the cranberries. The goal is to ensure that every bite has a bit of everything in it.

Once mixed, the slaw will already smell amazing—fresh, tangy, and just a little sweet. You’ll notice how the dressing clings beautifully to the apples and carrots, giving the entire dish a glossy, creamy finish.

Step 6: Fold in the Mandarin Oranges

Now it’s time to add your canned mandarin orange segments. Make sure they’re well-drained—excess liquid can make the slaw watery and dilute the flavors.

Gently fold in the mandarin segments. They’re quite delicate, so take your time here to avoid breaking them apart too much. Their juicy, sweet-tart flavor adds a lovely burst of citrus to the slaw and complements the yogurt dressing perfectly.

If you want, you can reserve a few mandarin segments to place on top just before serving for a decorative touch.

Step 7: Chill

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the slaw to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least three hours. This step is important because it allows the flavors to meld together and gives the apples and carrots time to absorb some of the creamy dressing.

The chill time also firms up the slaw and enhances the overall texture. If you’re planning to serve this at a party or gathering, you can easily make it the night before. It holds up very well in the fridge and tastes even better after resting for a few hours.

Optional Step: Add a Crunchy Topping Before Serving

If you like a little crunch on top of your slaw, consider adding a handful of toasted sunflower seeds, slivered almonds, or even crushed pita chips just before serving. These toppings add another layer of texture and contrast that elevates the dish even further.

Final Step: Serve and Enjoy

After chilling, give the slaw a quick stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. Then spoon it into a serving dish or serve it straight from the mixing bowl. This slaw makes a stunning side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, lunch boxes, or casual weeknight dinners.

Don’t be surprised if it disappears quickly. It’s the kind of recipe people remember—and ask for.

Crunchy apple carrot slaw

How to Serve this Crunchy apple carrot slaw

This Crunchy Apple Carrot Slaw is versatile enough to fit into just about any mealtime situation. Whether you’re serving it at a big family gathering or just making lunch for one, there are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy it.

As a side dish, it’s perfect alongside grilled chicken, turkey burgers, or even a juicy beef or lamb kebab. The sweet and creamy profile pairs well with savory, smoky main dishes, helping to lighten up heavier proteins and add a refreshing contrast. Because it’s not mayonnaise-heavy, it feels much lighter than traditional coleslaw, which makes it a hit even with folks who usually shy away from creamy salads.

For lunch, you can enjoy it on its own as a fresh, veggie-packed option that doesn’t feel like a chore to eat. Add a hard-boiled egg or a few slices of grilled chicken on top to turn it into a more filling meal.

It also works beautifully as a sandwich or wrap filling. Spoon a generous helping into a whole wheat pita with slices of roasted turkey, or add it to a wrap with grilled tofu or halloumi for a satisfying vegetarian option.

Hosting a gathering? Serve it in a large glass bowl to show off all the colorful layers. You can even garnish the top with extra mandarin slices, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, or a dusting of cinnamon if you want to play up the sweet side.

No matter how you serve it, this slaw brings a fresh, unexpected twist to the table—one that both kids and adults love.

Pairing Suggestions

This Crunchy Apple Carrot Slaw is delightfully adaptable, which makes it a dream to pair with all kinds of dishes and meals. Because it’s light, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet, it serves as a refreshing contrast to heartier mains and can even balance out spicier or saltier foods. Here are some of the best ways to pair it:

Pair it with grilled meats. The cool crispness of the slaw pairs beautifully with grilled chicken skewers, beef kofta, or turkey sausages. The sweetness of the apples and cranberries cuts through the smokiness of the grill and provides a cooling element that complements the meat.

Serve it alongside roasted or baked dishes. Think roast chicken with rosemary, herb-baked salmon, or honey-mustard turkey breast. The slaw provides a fresh contrast that brightens up any warm, roasted meal. Plus, its juicy elements help balance drier cuts of meat.

It’s also a fantastic addition to sandwiches and wraps. Use it in place of lettuce for a turkey and avocado sandwich, or spoon it into a whole wheat wrap with grilled chicken and hummus for a well-rounded lunch. It brings both texture and flavor that typical leafy greens can’t always deliver.

For vegetarian pairings, try serving it with quiche, falafel, or a hearty grain bowl. The slaw’s sweetness and crunch contrast nicely with softer, earthy flavors like lentils, quinoa, or roasted root vegetables.

When it comes to drinks, stick with something light and crisp. Try sparkling water with lemon, a cool glass of mint lemonade, or even an iced herbal tea like chamomile or hibiscus. These beverages mirror the slaw’s fresh and fruity notes and won’t overpower it.

And of course, during holidays or potlucks, this slaw makes a colorful addition to a larger spread. Pair it with a platter of grilled vegetables, some fresh flatbread, and a protein dish for a complete and satisfying meal.

Whether you’re building a picnic basket or hosting a dinner party, this slaw is ready to play well with just about anything on the table.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best parts of this recipe is how well it holds up over time. With proper storage, you can make it ahead and enjoy leftovers without compromising texture or flavor. Here’s how to keep your slaw at its freshest:

Storing in the refrigerator: After you’ve made the slaw and let it chill for the initial three hours, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and crisp in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. The carrots and apples maintain their crunch, and the flavors continue to meld the longer it sits. Just be sure to give it a quick stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing and any settled juices.

If you’re making this for a party, you can even prepare the components a day ahead. Slice the apples and toss them with lemon juice, dice the onions, and store the ingredients separately. Then, just combine everything with the dressing a few hours before serving.

Freezing is not recommended for this slaw. Because it’s made with fresh fruit and vegetables, freezing will cause the texture to deteriorate. The apples and carrots will become mushy upon thawing, and the dressing may separate or become watery. For best results, enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating isn’t necessary for this recipe since it’s meant to be served cold. If you’ve just pulled it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to take off the chill and bring the flavors forward. Cold temperatures can sometimes mute the sweetness and tanginess, so a short rest on the counter helps enhance the eating experience.

If your slaw looks a bit watery after sitting, don’t worry. Simply give it a gentle stir and, if needed, add a small spoonful of yogurt to freshen it up. This is especially helpful on the third or fourth day.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy this slaw throughout the week, whether you’re adding it to meals or sneaking bites straight from the bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this Crunchy Apple Carrot Slaw is a simple recipe, a few common missteps can affect its final taste and texture. Here are some key things to keep in mind to ensure your slaw turns out perfect every time.

Skipping the lemon juice step for apples is one of the most common mistakes. Apples brown quickly once they’re cut, and tossing them with lemon juice not only preserves their appearance but also adds a bright note that enhances the overall flavor. Don’t skip this step or substitute with water—it’s essential.

Using watery canned mandarins without draining them thoroughly can also cause issues. If the mandarins are too wet, they’ll water down your dressing and make the slaw soggy. Be sure to drain them well in a fine-mesh strainer and let them sit for a few minutes before folding them into the salad.

Overmixing the slaw is another potential pitfall. While it’s important to ensure everything is well coated in the dressing, over-stirring can break down the apples and mandarins, causing them to lose their structure. Gently folding is the best technique here.

Using overly sweet yogurt can make the dish too sugary. Some vanilla yogurts are loaded with added sugars, which can throw off the balance. Look for a lightly sweetened or low-sugar variety, or even use plain yogurt with a splash of vanilla extract and a drizzle of honey for more control.

Adding the dressing too early if you’re planning to serve much later in the day can also lead to sogginess. While chilling is recommended, assembling the slaw more than a day in advance may cause the apples to soften and the dressing to thin. For best results, mix everything together no more than 24 hours before serving.

Lastly, forgetting to taste and adjust the dressing before adding it to the slaw is a missed opportunity. Everyone’s taste preferences are different, so give the dressing a quick sample and adjust the salt, sugar, or pepper to suit your liking.

Avoiding these small but impactful mistakes will help you create a slaw that’s crisp, flavorful, and impressive every time.

Pro Tips

To take your Crunchy Apple Carrot Slaw from good to unforgettable, here are some expert-level tips that make a big difference in flavor, texture, and presentation.

Tip 1: Use cold ingredients for a fresher taste. Chilling your apples, carrots, and even your yogurt before mixing helps keep everything crisp and refreshing. This is especially helpful if you’re serving it on a hot day or pairing it with warm dishes.

Tip 2: Add a sprinkle of spice. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dressing. These warm spices complement the sweetness of the apples and cranberries without overpowering the dish.

Tip 3: Drain yogurt if it’s watery. Some vanilla yogurts can have a bit of excess liquid. To avoid a runny dressing, let the yogurt sit in a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl for 5–10 minutes before mixing it into the dressing.

Tip 4: Toasted nuts make an excellent topping. If you’re serving this to guests or want to elevate the texture, sprinkle some toasted almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds on top just before serving. The added crunch takes the dish to a new level.

Tip 5: Try grating the carrots yourself. While pre-cut matchstick carrots are convenient, freshly grated or julienned carrots have a slightly sweeter flavor and softer texture that blends beautifully with the other ingredients.

Tip 6: Let the flavors rest. While the slaw is delicious freshly mixed, it’s even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours. This rest period allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Just don’t skip the final stir before serving.

Tip 7: Add protein for a complete meal. Want to turn your slaw into a lunch-worthy dish? Add grilled chicken strips, cooked chickpeas, or diced boiled eggs. The slaw makes an excellent base for a light, nutritious bowl.

Tip 8: Play with herbs. Fresh herbs like mint or parsley can add brightness and a layer of freshness. Try a small handful of finely chopped herbs mixed in just before serving.

These tips may seem small, but together they’ll elevate your slaw into something that feels gourmet—even though it’s still incredibly easy to make.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?
Absolutely. While Red Delicious and Granny Smith apples are recommended for their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can use whatever apples you have on hand. Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala are all excellent choices. Just make sure to include at least one tart variety to keep the flavor well-balanced.

What if I don’t have vanilla yogurt?
If you don’t have vanilla yogurt, you can use plain yogurt and add about ½ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract along with a touch of honey or sugar to mimic the sweetness of vanilla yogurt. This gives you more control over the sweetness and flavor.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the dressing?
Yes, for a dairy-free version, use a plant-based vanilla yogurt made from almond, coconut, or soy. Make sure it’s unsweetened or lightly sweetened. For the mayo, use a vegan or egg-free mayonnaise. The result will still be creamy and flavorful.

Can I make this slaw in advance?
Definitely. This slaw actually improves with a few hours of rest in the refrigerator, as the flavors meld together. Ideally, prepare it at least 3 hours in advance and serve within 24 hours for the best texture. After that, the apples may soften slightly, but the flavor will still be wonderful.

Can I leave out the onion if I don’t like it raw?
Yes, the onion is totally optional. If you want that savory edge without raw onion bite, you can substitute it with a small amount of green onions or chives, which are milder. Alternatively, soak the diced yellow onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it, which helps reduce its intensity.

How can I make this slaw a full meal?
Add a protein like grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, sliced turkey breast, or even pan-seared tofu. Serve it over a bed of mixed greens or in a wrap to turn it into a complete, nourishing meal.

Is this slaw suitable for kids?
Yes, kids generally love the sweet elements in this slaw, especially the apples, mandarins, and cranberries. The creamy dressing also makes it more appealing. If your child is sensitive to textures, consider chopping everything a bit smaller for easier eating.

Can I substitute the cranberries with another dried fruit?
Definitely. Try golden raisins, chopped dried apricots, or dried cherries. Just make sure whatever you use is soft and not overly sweet, and adjust the quantity to suit your taste.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you check your yogurt and mayonnaise to ensure they don’t contain any hidden gluten-based thickeners or additives.

What can I do if the slaw becomes watery after chilling?
This can happen if the apples or mandarins release extra juice during refrigeration. To fix it, stir the slaw gently, and if needed, drain a bit of the liquid. You can also refresh the texture with a spoonful of extra yogurt or a small handful of freshly cut apples or carrots.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Crunchy Apple Carrot Slaw with Vanilla Yogurt Dressing is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of texture, color, and flavor. It combines the best of fresh, raw ingredients into something that feels both nourishing and indulgent. It’s the kind of recipe that hits all the right notes: sweet, tangy, crunchy, and creamy. Whether you’re trying to eat a little healthier, looking for a dish that will wow your guests, or just need something quick and delicious for dinner, this slaw has got you covered.

I love how versatile and approachable this dish is. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, yet special enough to bring to a holiday table. The simple ingredients make it budget-friendly and accessible, while the final result feels like something you’d find in a trendy café. And it’s one of those recipes that people will ask about. Expect compliments. Expect recipe requests. Maybe even expect a few leftovers to mysteriously disappear from the fridge.

So, if you’ve made it this far and are still wondering if this recipe is worth trying—this is your sign to go for it. Head to your kitchen, grab those apples and carrots, and whip up something that’s not only beautiful but truly satisfying. I promise you, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

And once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add your own twist? Serve it with something unexpected? Share your version with me—I’m always excited to see your delicious creations. Leave a comment with your feedback, or tag your photos on social media to show off your colorful, crunchy masterpiece.

Your next favorite side dish is just a few simple steps away. Let’s make it together and bring a little extra joy to the table.

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Crunchy apple carrot slaw

Crunchy Apple Carrot Slaw with Yogurt Dressing – Easy & Healthy


  • Author: Julia Hart
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (including chill time)
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and refreshing slaw made with crisp apples, crunchy carrots, juicy mandarin oranges, and a creamy vanilla yogurt dressing. This easy, no-cook side dish is perfect for potlucks, lunchboxes, or light meals.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 Red Delicious apple

  • 1 Granny Smith apple

  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

  • 2 cups matchstick carrots

  • ¼ cup yellow onion, finely diced

  • ⅓ cup dried sweetened cranberries

  • ½ cup vanilla yogurt

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise

  • 1 tbsp sugar

  • ¼ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • 1 cup canned mandarin segments, drained


Instructions

  • Slice apples into matchsticks and toss with lemon juice. Let sit 5 mins.

  • In a large bowl, combine carrots, onions, and cranberries.

  • Add the apples to the bowl.

  • In a separate bowl, mix yogurt, mayo, sugar, salt, and pepper.

  • Pour dressing over slaw mixture and stir gently.

  • Fold in mandarin oranges.

  • Chill for at least 3 hours before serving.

Notes

  • Best served cold.

  • Make ahead up to 24 hours for more developed flavor.

  • Use fresh vanilla yogurt with minimal added sugar for best results.

  • Garnish with chopped mint or nuts if desired.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad, Side Dish
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

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