BEET, APPLE, AND CARROT SALAD WITH LEMON VINAIGRETTE (OIL-FREE)

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This vibrant Beet, Apple, and Carrot Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a refreshing and nutritious dish. It’s made with wholesome ingredients and perfect for a healthy, oil-free side.

This Beet, Apple, and Carrot Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is visually stunning and packed with nutrients and flavor.

The earthy sweetness of beets, the crunch of carrots, and the fresh burst of apples pair wonderfully with a bright, tangy lemon vinaigrette. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a healthy side dish, or a light addition to your meal, this salad is an excellent choice.

Plus, it’s fully whole food plant-based and free from added oils, making it a healthy choice for everyone.

My family loves colorful and sweet-savory salads, and this Beet, Apple, and Carrot Salad is one of our favorites. We enjoy making it year-round because it’s crunchy, filling, refreshing, easy to prepare, and perfect for any season. I know you will love it just as much as we do!

WHAT ALLERGENS IS FREE FROM?

• Dairy-Free

• Egg-Free

• Gluten-Free

• Nut-free

• Soy-Free

This recipe suits those following a vegan, oil-free, and whole-food plant-based diet.

WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS AND IT’S GOOD FOR YOU

This salad works because it combines a variety of textures and flavors that balance each other perfectly. Beets are loaded with antioxidants and nitrates, which are great for heart health.

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, boosting your vision and skin.

Apples add a touch of sweetness and are a good source of fiber, supporting gut health.

The lemon vinaigrette’s refreshing tang ties everything together, while the optional sunflower seeds add a satisfying crunch.

This recipe is oil-free, making it a lighter, healthier option.

HOW TO PREPARE THIS RECIPE

(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes).

This creamy pasta salad is simple to prepare: cook the pasta, chop the veggies and fruits, whisk together the dressing, and mix it all up.

This salad is quick and easy to prepare: simply grate or slice the vegetables and apple, mix the vinaigrette, and toss everything together.

Let’s explore kitchen tools, the required ingredients, and the steps with helpful pictures if needed.

USEFUL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this recipe:

• Mixing Bowls: These are used to combine the salad ingredients and the vinaigrette.

• Whisk: To mix the lemon vinaigrette ingredients until well combined.

• Box Grater or Mandoline: To shred or slice the beets, carrots, and apples to the desired texture.

• Wooden Spoon: To toss the salad ingredients together with the vinaigrette.

Now, let’s review the list of ingredients and potential substitutions in some cases.

INGREDIENTS NOTES

Here is a list of everything you will need to prepare this delicious and colorful salad:

SALAD

• Beets: These add an earthy sweetness and vibrant color. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute golden beets.

• Carrots: Carrots provide a crunchy texture and a dose of beta-carotene. For added color variety, you can use rainbow carrots.

• Apple: This adds a sweet and fresh burst to balance the earthy flavors. Any crisp apple, like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, works well here.

• Sunflower Seeds: These add a nice crunch and healthy fats. For another nut-free option, you can substitute pumpkin seeds. You can also use any nuts.

• Dried Cranberries: Adds a touch of sweetness and chewiness. You can substitute with raisins or omit them if you prefer less sweetness.

LEMON VINAIGRETTE

• Maple Syrup: Adds a natural sweetness to balance the tang of the lemon.

• Lemon Zest and Juice: These provide a bright, tangy flavor. Fresh lemons are best, but you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch.

• Apple Cider Vinegar adds acidity and depth to the vinaigrette. White wine vinegar or rice vinegar can be substituted.

• Dijon Mustard helps emulsify the vinaigrette and adds a slight tang. You can substitute yellow mustard if needed.

• Salt and Pepper: Enhances all the flavors. Adjust to taste.

DIRECTIONS WITH PICTURES

To prepare this salad, follow these steps:

Prep the Ingredients: Grate or thinly slice the beets and carrots. Slice or chop the apple. Toast the sunflower seeds (if using).

Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, mix the lemon zest and juice, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad: Combine the grated beets, carrots, and apples in a large bowl. Toss the salad with the vinaigrette until everything is well coated.

Optional: Add toasted sunflower seeds or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.

Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature.

WHAT WILL YOU LOVE ABOUT THIS RECIPE?

Well, you will find that it is:

• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.

• Oil-Free: A light and healthy option without any added oils.

• Quick and Easy: It only takes 15 minutes to prepare.

• Customizable: Easily adaptable with optional add-ins like nuts, vegan protein, or dried fruit.

Let’s prepare this delicious salad and enjoy vibrant flavors in every bite!

OTHER SALAD RECIPES TO TRY!

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PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD

WAYS TO ENJOY THIS RECIPE

Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this Salad:

• Enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite plant-based main course. To make this salad a main course, consider adding a protein source like chickpeas, quinoa, or tofu to make it more filling and satisfying.

• Serve it as a light lunch, along with some crusty whole-grain bread.

• Add a scoop of this salad to a wrap or sandwich for a refreshing crunch.