Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing

### Instructions:

#### 1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
– Start by **washing and peeling** the carrots. You can either grate them for a finer texture or julienne them into matchsticks for a more crunchy bite.
– **Core and slice** the apples into thin, even slices or matchsticks. If you prefer, you can cut them into cubes.
– If you’re using **celery**, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces for an additional crunchy element.
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the **apples**, **carrots**, **celery**, **raisins**, and **walnuts**. Toss them together gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.

#### 2. Make the Creamy Citrus Dressing:
– In a separate small bowl, whisk together the **Greek yogurt**, **orange juice**, **lemon juice**, **honey**, and **olive oil** until smooth and well combined.
– Season the dressing with a pinch of **salt** and **pepper** to taste. Adjust the sweetness and acidity by adding more honey or lemon juice according to your preference.

#### 3. Toss the Salad and Dressing:
– Pour the creamy citrus dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together gently, making sure all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
– Garnish with freshly chopped **parsley** or **mint** for a pop of color and freshness.

#### 4. Serve and Enjoy:
– Serve the salad immediately, or chill it for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

### Tips for the Best Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad:
1. **Choose Crisp Apples**: For the best texture, choose apples that are crisp and firm, such as Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp.
2. **Add Protein**: For a more filling salad, consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.
3. **Customize the Nuts**: You can swap walnuts for other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even add seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.
4. **Make It Vegan**: To make the dressing vegan, substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free option like coconut yogurt or cashew cream.
5. **Adjust Sweetness**: Depending on your preference, you can add more honey or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup to adjust the level of sweetness in the dressing.

### Health Benefits of This Salad

– **High in Fiber**: Apples and carrots are rich in fiber, which promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer.
– **Rich in Vitamins**: The citrus dressing adds a boost of vitamin C, which supports the immune system, while the carrots are packed with beta-carotene for healthy vision.
– **Antioxidants**: Apples contain antioxidants that help protect your cells from oxidative stress, while raisins and cranberries add extra antioxidants for overall health.
– **Heart-Healthy**: Walnuts provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, while olive oil in the dressing offers healthy monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health.

### Conclusion

This **Crunchy Apple & Carrot Salad with Creamy Citrus Dressing** is the perfect combination of refreshing flavors and textures, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. It’s a healthy, quick, and easy recipe that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a main dish for a more complete meal. The creamy citrus dressing elevates the salad with a tangy-sweet note, while the apples and carrots provide the perfect crunch. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, a family dinner, or a potluck, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits it brings to your table!