Are you looking for the perfect side dish for your next summer gathering? Then you have found it!
This copycat Chick-fil-A Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe is easy to make and packed with crunchy orange goodness, a refreshingly tangy salad bursting with carrots, raisins, and pineapple tidbits.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes for best results
- Servings: 8
- Prep Level: Beginner +
It is a salad that is very similar to the famous Chick-fil-A Carrot and Raisin Salad.
A delicious salad that was a staple on their menu for decades and remains one of the fan favorites.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy
- Few Simple Ingredients
- Kid-Friendly
- Great Side for Any Meal
This Carrot Salad with raisins is always a hit.
It’s an easy recipe that is made with just a handful of ingredients, so lovers of this dish including my sister Barbara, can make it at home in about 15 minutes!
Ingredients in Carrot Salad Recipe
What you will need
- Fresh carrots
- Raisins
- Crushed pineapple – drained
- Mayonnaise
- Sugar
- Fresh lemon juice
- Optional – a dash of salt
Helpful Equipment and Tools
- Cutting board
- Vegetable peeler
- Flat or box grater
- Measuring cups
- Large bowl
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Citrus juicer – handheld
- Large spoon
Variations and Optional Add-Ins
Carrots – I recommend fresh grated or shredded carrots. Pre-shredded carrots can work if you’re short on time but the flavor and texture aren’t the same.
Raisins – regular raisins are perfect for this recipe. You can substitute golden raisins if you prefer or if that’s what you have on hand.
Pineapple – both canned chunked or crushed will work. If you use chunked, after you drain the pineapple juice, cut the large pieces into tidbits.
Mayonnaise – for a lighter version of this salad, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise.
Sugar – some carrot salad recipes call for honey which is a great alternative. I just happen to like white sugar for this particular salad.
Fresh lemon juice – there’s nothing like fresh citrus juice but if you don’t have any on hand, use bottled lemon juice. A popular alternative is apple cider vinegar.
Optional – add a handful of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch and protein. Sprinkle in some shredded coconut for a tropical flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Peel, rinse, and pat dry the carrots.
- Use either a grater or a food processor with a grating plate to shred the carrots. Place them in a large bowl and set aside.
- In a separate bowl combine the mayonnaise, sugar, and fresh lemon juice and mix well.
- Add the raisins and the drained pineapple to the shredded carrots.
- Pour the sauce into the large bowl over the other ingredients.
- Use a large spoon and gently stir until all the ingredients are thoroughly coated.
- Cover the bowl with an airtight lid or plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once chilled, give the salad a final toss and serve it up alongside your favorite chicken sandwich or as a delicious side dish at your next meal.
What to Serve with Carrot Raisin Salad
- Slow Cooker Ham Sliders by South in your Mouth
Check out more delicious salad recipes!
So whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or wanting a quick side dish for a weeknight dinner, you can’t go wrong with this delicious salad. Enjoy!
If you like this recipe, I would love to hear from you. Rate it and leave a comment!
Cheers! Laura Belle
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can! This salad tastes even better when made ahead of time. The best way is to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. Give the salad a good stir before serving.
Yes, pre-shredded carrots are a great time-saving option for this recipe. Just remember the texture and taste may be a little different.
This salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Easy Carrot Raisin Salad (Chick-fil-A style)
This copycat Chick-fil-A Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe is easy to make and packed with crunchy orange goodness, a refreshingly tangy salad bursting with carrots, raisins, and pineapple tidbits. Ready in 15 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh carrots – approximately 4 cups
- 3/4 cup raisins
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple – drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sugar
- Fresh lemon juice – 1/2 of lemon, about 1.5 tablespoons
- Optional – a dash of salt
Instructions
- Peel, rinse, and pat dry the carrots.
- Grate or shred carrots. Place them in a large bowl and set aside.
- In a separate bowl combine the mayonnaise, sugar, and fresh lemon juice and mix well.
- Add the raisins and the drained pineapple to the shredded carrots.
- Pour the sauce into the large bowl over the other ingredients and gently stir until all the ingredients are thoroughly coated.
- Cover the bowl with an airtight lid or plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once chilled, give the salad a final toss and serve it up alongside your favorite chicken sandwich or as a delicious side dish at your next meal.
Notes
Helpful Equipment and Tools
- Cutting board
- Vegetable peeler
- Flat or box grater
- Measuring cups
- Large bowl
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Citrus juicer – handheld
- Large spoon
Variations and Optional Add-Ins
Carrots – I recommend fresh grated or shredded carrots. Pre-shredded carrots can work if you're short on time.
Raisins – regular raisins are perfect for this recipe. You can substitute golden raisins.
Pineapple – both canned chunked or crushed will work. If you use chunked, after you drain the pineapple juice, cut the large pieces into tidbits.
Mayonnaise – for a lighter version of this salad, use Greek yogurt.
Sugar – honey is a great alternative.
Fresh lemon juice – you can use bottled lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.
Optional – add a handful of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch and protein. Sprinkle in some shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
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