Description
A fresh and crunchy raw carrot salad featuring thinly sliced carrots tossed in a sweet, tangy, and savory dressing made with apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of agave or maple syrup. This easy and healthy salad is perfect for a light side dish or snack, ready in just 20 minutes and ideal for any season.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons parsley, roughly minced
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- 1 teaspoon mint, minced (optional)
Dressing
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons olive oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon agave or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red peppers (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the carrots: Wash the carrots thoroughly. Using a peeler, carefully slice the carrots into thin, long strips lengthwise to achieve a delicate and crunchy texture. Place the sliced carrots into a large bowl and set aside.
- Make the dressing: In a small jar or bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, olive oil (if using), balsamic vinegar, agave or maple syrup, salt, pepper, and crushed red peppers (optional). Stir or shake well to mix all ingredients thoroughly until the dressing is emulsified.
- Toss the salad: Add the roughly minced parsley and minced mint (if using) to the bowl with the sliced carrots. Pour the dressing over the carrots and herbs. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure the carrots are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately at room temperature or chill it in the refrigerator for a short while before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired for an added nutty crunch.
Notes
- This carrot salad is refreshing and crunchy with a balanced sweet and tangy dressing, perfect for summer or any time of year.
- Using a vegetable peeler to slice carrots thinly enhances the texture and presentation.
- Olive oil is optional but adds richness to the dressing.
- Mint and crushed red pepper can be added to boost flavor complexity but can be omitted if preferred.
- Best served fresh for maximum crunch but can be refrigerated up to a day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 86 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 65 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
