Description
A refreshing and vibrant Spring Carrot Salad featuring thinly sliced carrots tossed with fresh parsley, mint, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. This light and healthy salad is perfect as a side dish or appetizer, enhanced with optional toasted sunflower seeds or almonds for extra crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 large carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- 1 tablespoon toasted sunflower seeds or almonds (optional, for crunch)
Instructions
- Combine the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced carrots, chopped parsley, and chopped mint, mixing them gently to distribute the herbs evenly throughout the carrots.
- Prepare the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss salad with dressing: Pour the dressing over the carrot and herb mixture, tossing gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds or almonds over the salad for added texture and crunch, if desired.
- Chill to meld flavors: Place the salad in the refrigerator and chill for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and meld together for optimal taste.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light appetizer, perfect for spring or warm weather meals.
Notes
- Use peeled and very thinly sliced carrots for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- Honey or maple syrup is optional; omit for a more tart and savory dressing.
- To toast sunflower seeds or almonds, heat a dry skillet over medium heat and stir the seeds/nuts for 3-5 minutes until lightly browned and fragrant.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavor melding but it can also be served immediately if short on time.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or can be served as a light vegan-friendly dish on its own.
