Looking for a festive and refreshing side dish to brighten up your holiday table? This Holiday Carrot Salad with Cranberries and Pistachios is as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s packed with vibrant colors, contrasting textures, and seasonal flavors that make it a perfect pairing for rich holiday mains like ribs, roast turkey, or ham.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Bright and Tangy Flavors: The dressing adds a perfect balance of sweetness and zing.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Cranberries and pistachios bring a festive touch.
- Easy to Make: Ready in just minutes with minimal prep.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish or a light appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and shredded (or spiralized for a fancier presentation)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (look for unsweetened or low-sugar options)
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It
- Prep the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded carrots, dried cranberries, pistachios, parsley, and goat cheese (if using). - Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. - Toss and Rest:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat evenly. Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. - Serve:
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Carrot Salad
- Make It Ahead: This salad can be prepped a few hours in advance, making it a stress-free option for holiday meals. Just toss in the dressing right before serving to keep it fresh.
- Customizable: Swap out cranberries for dried cherries or raisins, or use walnuts instead of pistachios for a different twist.
- Add Protein: Turn this into a light meal by adding shredded chicken or chickpeas.
Why It’s Perfect for the Holidays
This salad offers a refreshing, tangy contrast to heavier dishes like ribs, casseroles, and roasts. The cranberries and pistachios not only add seasonal flair but also provide pops of sweetness and crunch that everyone will love.
Make This Holiday Extra Special
Pair this vibrant carrot salad with your holiday feast, and watch it become a new favorite. It’s quick, festive, and sure to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Did you try this recipe? Let me know how it turned out in the comments below or tag me on Instagram. I’d love to see your creations!
