Ingredients
5 Large Carrots, peeled and shredded
1 Handful Raisins
1 Handful Walnuts, roughly chopped
1 Cup Heavy Whipping Cream
2 Tablespoons Mayonnaise
1 Pinch of Salt
2 Tablespoons Sugar
Directions
1. Prepare the dressing first: In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream, mayonnaise, sugar, and a pinch of salt until smooth and slightly thickened.
2. Combine the mix-ins: In a large bowl, add the shredded carrots, raisins, and chopped walnuts.
3. Mix and chill: Pour the cream mixture over the carrot mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Rest and serve: Chill for at least 15–20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend and the raisins to plump up slightly.
💡 Tip: Mixing the dressing first creates a smoother, creamier texture and ensures the sweetness and salt distribute evenly.
Health Benefits
Carrot Salad is both refreshing and nutritious, combining the natural sweetness of carrots with the wholesome benefits of nuts and dried fruit. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A — essential for good vision, skin health, and immune function. Raisins add natural sugars and iron, offering quick energy and helping maintain healthy red blood cells. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that support brain and heart health. The combination of heavy cream and mayonnaise provides calcium and healthy fats that make the salad more satisfying, while a small amount of sugar and salt enhances the natural flavors. Together, this salad supports eye, skin, and heart health while offering a delightful balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch.
History
Carrot Salad has a history rooted in both European and American home cooking, with variations found around the world. In the early to mid-20th century, creamy carrot salads gained popularity in the United States as part of potluck and picnic traditions, often appearing in church cookbooks and family gatherings. The combination of shredded carrots, raisins, and nuts likely evolved from European grated carrot salads, which were dressed more simply with lemon and sugar. As American cuisine embraced convenience and creamier textures, cooks began using mayonnaise or cream-based dressings to create the sweet, tangy, and rich version familiar today. The addition of raisins and walnuts reflects a mid-century preference for balancing sweetness and crunch, making the salad both a side dish and a light dessert. Today, it endures as a nostalgic comfort food that bridges generations and cultures, symbolizing the creativity and practicality of home cooks throughout the decades.
Quiz
1. What vitamin in carrots helps maintain healthy eyesight?
A. Vitamin D
B. Vitamin A
C. Vitamin B6
D. Vitamin K
2. The combination of raisins and walnuts in carrot salad became popular during which era?
A. Medieval Europe
B. Early 20th century
C. Mid-20th century
D. Modern fusion cuisine
3. The creamy texture of carrot salad comes mainly from which two ingredients?
A. Sugar and salt
B. Heavy cream and mayonnaise
C. Carrots and raisins
D. Walnuts and vinegar
4. What country or region is most closely associated with the early development of carrot salads?
A. Eastern Europe
B. United States and Western Europe
C. South America
D. Africa
5. What is one health benefit of walnuts in the carrot salad?
A. High sugar content for quick energy
B. High in omega-3 fatty acids for heart health
C. Helps with iron absorption
D. Increases vitamin C levels
✅ Answers
1. B – Vitamin A
2. C – Mid-20th century
3. B – Heavy cream and mayonnaise
4. B – United States and Western Europe
5. B – High in omega-3 fatty acids for heart health
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