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 +
What I Love About This Salad
- Quick and easy – All you need is a bowl, grater, and a few minutes of prep time.
- A classic throwback – A delicious salad that was a staple on their menu for decades and remains one of the fan favorites.
- Light yet satisfying – It’s a refreshing sided that feels wholesome without being heavy. It’s great for picnics, barbecues, or an everyday lunch.
- Family and kid-approved – The natural sweetness of carrots and raisins makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
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!
Ingredient Notes
- 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.
See the recipe card below for complete measurements.
Laura Belle’s Tips
- Use freshly grated carrots – Pre-shredded carrots are convenient and can be used but grating your own makes the salad taste fresher and more tender.
- Chill before serving – Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend before serving.
- Adjust the sweetness – Taste the dressing before adding it to the carrots. Add a little more sugar or lemon juice until it’s fits your taste.
Storage
This salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Give it a quick stir before serving.
What to Serve with Carrot Raisin Salad
- Slow Cooker Ham Sliders from South Your Mouth
Make Ahead
This salad tastes even better after it has chilled for a few hours. Making it ahead allow the flavors to blend and gives the raisins time to soften slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Freshly grated carrots provide the best texture and flavor. You can use pre-shredded carrots however, they tend to be drier and less tender than freshly grated carrots.
Yes. Honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute can be used in place of granulated sugar, though the flavor may vary slightly from the classic Chick-fil-A version.
Absolutely! Diced apple, shredded coconut, or chopped pecans are delicious additions if you’d like to put your own spin on the recipe.
If your raisins seem dry, soak them in water for 5 to 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. Drain well before mixing them in.
Use fresh carrots, avoid overmixing, and chill the salad before serving. If making it ahead, give it a stir and drain any excess liquid before serving if needed.
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 bowlÂ
- 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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