Introduction of Recipe

If you grew up attending potlucks, church gatherings, or family BBQs in the United States, chances are you’ve seen a big bowl of creamy carrot raisin salad sitting proudly on the table. This Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe is a true classic — sweet, crunchy, creamy, and incredibly simple to make.

Made with freshly grated carrots, plump raisins, and a lightly sweet dressing, this easy carrot raisin salad is the perfect balance of texture and flavor. It’s cool, refreshing, and pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, and holiday spreads.

Pinterest users love recipes like this because they are:

• Quick and no-cook

• Budget-friendly

• Family-approved

• Perfect for meal prep

• Nostalgic and comforting

Whether you’re planning a summer cookout, packing lunches, or looking for a simple make-ahead side dish, this creamy carrot raisin salad recipe delivers every time.

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3. History / Background

Carrot raisin salad became especially popular in mid-20th century America. During the 1950s and 1960s, refrigerated mayonnaise-based salads were staples at social gatherings. Cookbooks and community recipe cards frequently featured variations of shredded carrot salads with sweet dressings.

While shredded carrot salads exist worldwide — including French “carottes râpées” and Middle Eastern carrot salads — the American version is unique for its creamy, slightly sweet dressing and the addition of raisins.

The sweetness of raisins paired with crisp carrots reflected the era’s love for balanced sweet-savory dishes. It was also practical: carrots were inexpensive, widely available, and stored well.

Today, this old-fashioned carrot raisin salad continues to thrive because it’s simple, colorful, and crowd-pleasing. It brings nostalgic charm to modern tables while still fitting into today’s quick and easy cooking style.

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4. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe is simple, satisfying, and incredibly reliable. It’s one of those dishes you can prepare in minutes and know everyone will enjoy.

The combination of crunchy carrots and soft, sweet raisins coated in a creamy dressing makes every bite balanced and delicious.

You’ll love this recipe because:

• ✅ Ready in under 15 minutes

• ✅ No cooking required

• ✅ Made with affordable pantry staples

• ✅ Kid-friendly

• ✅ Perfect for potlucks and BBQs

• ✅ Easy to customize

• ✅ Can be made ahead

• ✅ Bright and colorful presentation

It’s a refreshing side dish that feels both comforting and light.

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5. Ingredient Notes

Let’s look at what makes this salad shine.

Carrots

The star ingredient. Freshly grated carrots provide sweetness and crunch.
Best option: Grate whole carrots yourself for best texture.
Shortcut: Pre-shredded carrots work but are slightly drier.

Raisins

Add natural sweetness and chewy texture.
Substitution: Golden raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots.

Mayonnaise

Creates the creamy base.
Substitution: Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or half mayo/half yogurt.

Honey or Sugar

Enhances sweetness slightly.
Adjust based on preference.

Lemon Juice

Adds brightness and balances sweetness.

Optional Add-Ins

• Pineapple chunks

• Chopped walnuts or pecans

• Shredded coconut

• A pinch of cinnamon

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6. Equipment Needed

You’ll only need simple kitchen tools:

• Box grater or food processor

• Large mixing bowl

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Spoon or spatula

• Small whisk (for dressing)

  Print

  

  Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe

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  Pin Recipe

  This classic Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe is a creamy, sweet, and crunchy side dish made with freshly grated carrots, plump raisins, and a light lemon dressing. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, holidays, and easy family dinners.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  • 4 cups freshly grated carrots (about 5–6 medium carrots)

  • 1 cup raisins

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise

  • 1 tablespoon honey or sugar

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

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  Instructions

  • Wash, peel, and grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor.

  • Place grated carrots in a large mixing bowl.

  • Add raisins to the bowl.

  • In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, and salt.

  • Pour dressing over carrots and raisins.

  • Toss until evenly coated.

  • Fold in chopped walnuts if using.

  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

  Notes

  • Grate carrots fresh for best texture and moisture.

  • Let the salad chill to allow flavors to blend.

  • Adjust sweetness based on preference.

  • Author: Amiyah Weaver
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

  Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 3d
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

• Tips & Variations

  Want to customize this easy carrot raisin salad?

  Make It Lighter

  Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo.

  Add Tropical Flavor

  Mix in crushed pineapple (well drained).

  Add Crunch

  Include chopped pecans or sunflower seeds.

  Make It Healthier

  Reduce sugar and use light mayo.

  Add Spice

  Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.

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  10. Pro Chef Tips

  • Grate carrots finely but not mushy. Medium shreds give best texture.

  • Soak raisins in warm water for 5 minutes to plump them before adding.

  • Balance sweetness carefully. Start with less honey and adjust.

  • Chill before serving. It improves texture and flavor.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning. A small pinch of salt enhances sweetness.

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  11. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Using pre-shredded carrots only → They can be dry.

  2. Skipping chilling time → Flavors won’t blend properly.

  3. Adding too much sugar → Overpowers natural carrot sweetness.

  4. Overmixing → Can make dressing watery.

  5. Not draining pineapple (if using) → Makes salad soggy.

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  12. Storage & Meal Prep

  This salad stores very well.

  • Store in airtight container in refrigerator.

  • Keeps fresh for 3–4 days.

  • Stir before serving if dressing settles.

  Do not leave at room temperature for extended periods.

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  13. Make-Ahead & Freezer Notes

  Can it be prepared in advance?

  Yes! In fact, it tastes better after chilling for a few hours.

  Freezer-friendly?

  No. Mayo-based salads do not freeze well.

  Best serving method

  Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.

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  14. Serving Suggestions

  This Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with:

  • BBQ chicken

  • Pulled pork sandwiches

  • Burgers and hot dogs

  • Fried chicken

  • Holiday ham

  • Picnic spreads

  It also works as a refreshing side for lunch boxes and light dinners.

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  15. FAQs Section

  1. Can I use bagged shredded carrots?

  Yes, but freshly grated carrots taste better.

  2. Is carrot raisin salad healthy?

  It contains fiber and nutrients from carrots. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt.

  3. Can I make it dairy-free?

  Yes, use a dairy-free mayo substitute.

  4. How long does it last?

  Up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

  5. Can I add pineapple?

  Yes, just drain it thoroughly first.

  6. Can I reduce the sweetness?

  Absolutely. Adjust honey or sugar to taste.

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  16. Conclusion

  This Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe is simple, nostalgic, and always a hit. It’s the kind of side dish that brings comfort to the table while still feeling fresh and vibrant.

  If you try this creamy carrot raisin salad, I’d love to hear how you customized it. Save it to Pinterest, share it with friends, and enjoy every sweet and crunchy bite!

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  Pinterest Optimization

  17. Pinterest Pin Titles

  1. Classic Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe

  2. Easy Creamy Carrot Raisin Salad

  3. Old-Fashioned Carrot Salad for BBQs

  4. Sweet & Crunchy Carrot Raisin Side Dish

  5. Quick 15-Minute Carrot Raisin Salad

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  18. Pinterest Pin Descriptions

  1. This classic Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe is creamy, sweet, and perfect for potlucks and BBQs!

  2. Looking for an easy side dish? Try this old-fashioned carrot raisin salad today.

  3. Sweet raisins and crunchy carrots tossed in creamy dressing — the perfect summer salad!

  4. A quick and budget-friendly side dish that everyone loves.

  5. Save this easy carrot salad recipe for your next family gathering!

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  19. Pinterest Hashtags

  #CarrotRaisinSalad
  #ClassicRecipes
  #BBQSideDish
  #EasySalads
  #PotluckRecipes
  #SummerSideDish
  #HomeCooking
  #ComfortFood
  #QuickRecipes
  #FamilyFriendly
  #HealthySides
  #VegetarianRecipes
  #SimpleMeals

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  AI Image Generation Prompts

  1. Ingredient Flat Lay

  Overhead shot of whole carrots, raisins in a small bowl, mayonnaise in a glass dish, lemon half, wooden grater on white marble countertop. Bright natural lighting, Pinterest-style clean aesthetic, fresh and cozy kitchen mood.

  2. Grating Carrots Close-Up

  Close-up angle of fresh carrots being grated on a box grater over a wooden cutting board. Soft natural window light, shallow depth of field, warm home kitchen atmosphere.

  3. Mixing the Salad

  Side angle of grated carrots and raisins being mixed with creamy dressing in a ceramic bowl, linen napkin nearby, bright and airy lighting, inviting family dinner mood.

  4. Final Styled Bowl Shot

  Overhead Pinterest-style photo of carrot raisin salad served in a white bowl, garnished with chopped walnuts, rustic wooden table, soft natural light, cozy potluck vibe.

  5. BBQ Table Scene

  Carrot raisin salad served alongside grilled chicken and corn on an outdoor picnic table, golden hour lighting, relaxed family gathering mood.