Can I make this salad the day before?

Absolutely. In fact, making it a day in advance is encouraged! The flavors marry and the raisins plump up even more, delivering perfect texture and taste.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you prefer not to use mayo, try full-fat Greek yogurt or even a vegan mayo. The creamy element is key, but there’s room for flexibility here based on dietary needs.

Do I have to use raisins?

No, you can swap in dried cranberries, golden raisins, or even chopped dried apricots. Each brings its own unique sweetness and texture, so feel free to play around.

Why is it important to refrigerate before serving?

Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the carrots to soften slightly, making every bite just right. It also helps the dressing thicken and cling to the ingredients for a cohesive salad.

Grandma’s Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe

If there’s one dish that always brings a smile to a family table, it’s Grandma’s Carrot Raisin Salad. This old-fashioned classic features tender shredded carrots, juicy pineapple, sweet plump raisins, and a creamy dressing—all in one bowl, ready in no time! Not only is it a breeze to toss together, but the flavors are absolutely irresistible: refreshing, lightly sweet, satisfyingly creamy, and a little bit tangy. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, alongside a weeknight meal, or tucking it into a lunchbox, this salad delivers all the comfort and nostalgia you’d expect, with almost zero fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly Quick and Easy: With just a handful of simple ingredients and no fancy gadgets, you’ll have this salad mixed up in minutes.
Perfect Make-Ahead Side: This is a dream for busy schedules—it gets even better as it chills, so you can prepare it in advance and relax.
Family-Friendly Classic: Both kids and adults are drawn to the natural sweetness and creamy texture. Nostalgia in every bite!
Great for Any Meal: It’s equally at home on a holiday table, at a backyard BBQ, or as a light lunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into this salad, with a few tips to help you make it your own:

Shredded Carrots: The main star. Use a box grater or the shredding blade on your food processor—freshly shredded carrots are best for crunch and flavor.
Mayonnaise: Brings the creamy texture and classic “deli salad” flavor. Choose a good, real mayo for richness.
Full-Fat Sour Cream: Adds a subtle tang and smoothness that balances the sweetness. Lower-fat versions work in a pinch, but the texture and taste are best with full-fat.
Apple Cider Vinegar: For a spark of acidity that brightens the whole dish.
Raisins: Classic, chewy, and sweet. They soak up a bit of the dressing as the salad sits, making them extra plump.
Pineapple, Drained and Cut into Small Wedges: Adds a juicy, tropical note. Canned or fresh both work—just be sure it’s well drained to keep the dressing creamy.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste. A pinch of salt lifts all the flavors, while freshly cracked pepper adds a subtle kick.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

The beauty of Grandma’s Carrot Raisin Salad is how easy it is to adapt:

Go Nutty: Stir in a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Low-Sugar Swap: Use unsweetened dried cranberries or golden raisins for a subtle twist.
Lighter Dressing: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added protein and tang.
No Pineapple? Mandarin oranges or diced apples make fun substitutes.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of orange juice for extra flavor depth.

How to Make Grandma’s Carrot Raisin Salad

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded carrots, mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, raisins, and pineapple wedges.

Step 2: Season and Mix

Sprinkle on your kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste. A generous pinch of salt goes a long way in balancing the sweetness! Stir everything gently but thoroughly until the salad is well mixed and the dressing evenly coats the carrots.

Step 3: Chill

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This softens the carrots just enough and gives the flavors time to meld.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Give the salad one last stir before serving, and taste to see if it needs a little more salt or a drizzle of vinegar. Spoon into serving bowls or onto plates, and enjoy the burst of color and flavor!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Freshly Shred Your Carrots: Pre-shredded carrots work, but nothing beats the juiciness and texture of freshly grated ones.
Drain Your Pineapple Well: Too much juice will make the dressing watery—press the pineapple lightly if needed.
Let It Rest: The magic really happens after an hour (or even overnight) in the fridge, so don’t skip this step.
Adjust to Taste: Taste after chilling, then add more salt, pepper, or vinegar if you want to sharpen the flavors.
Double Up for Crowds: This is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to scale up—just grab a bigger bowl!

How to Serve

Carrot Raisin Salad is endlessly versatile:

As a BBQ Side: The crunchy sweetness pairs beautifully with smoky grilled meats or burgers.
Weeknight Dinner Helper: Adds a pop of freshness alongside roast chicken or pork chops.
Lunchbox Staple: Packs perfectly for school or work and holds up well at room temperature.
Brunch or Holiday Table: That sunny color brightens any spread, and it won’t wilt while it sits out.

Try serving it in crisp lettuce cups for a fun twist, or alongside sandwiches for a retro deli moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Not recommended—freezing will change the texture of the carrots and the creamy dressing.

Reheating

No need to reheat! This salad is best served cold or at cool room temperature.

If it seems a touch watery after storing, simply give it a quick stir before serving. If needed, add a little extra mayo or sour cream to revive the creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make this salad the day before?

Absolutely. In fact, making it a day in advance is encouraged! The flavors marry and the raisins plump up even more, delivering perfect texture and taste.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you prefer not to use mayo, try full-fat Greek yogurt or even a vegan mayo. The creamy element is key, but there’s room for flexibility here based on dietary needs.
Do I have to use raisins?

No, you can swap in dried cranberries, golden raisins, or even chopped dried apricots. Each brings its own unique sweetness and texture, so feel free to play around.
Why is it important to refrigerate before serving?

Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the carrots to soften slightly, making every bite just right. It also helps the dressing thicken and cling to the ingredients for a cohesive salad.

Final Thoughts

There’s something special about the way Grandma’s Carrot Raisin Salad brings everyone together. Quick, fuss-free, and bursting with sunshiney flavor, this salad deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation. Give it a try this week, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with the variations. Here’s to bright, simple, delicious food that makes mealtime easier and more joyful!