Carrots are a great source of vitamins and nutrients, making them a perfect addition to any healthy diet. This carrot salad recipe is a great way to enjoy the benefits of carrots in a delicious and refreshing dish. The sweet and crunchy carrots are combined with raisins, walnuts, and parsley, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, raisins, chopped walnuts, and parsley.
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In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
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Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
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Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Variations
This carrot salad is very versatile and can be customized with your favorite veggies and toppings. Here are some ideas:
- Add some shredded red cabbage or sliced bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
- Swap out the walnuts for pecans or almonds.
- Use dried cranberries or chopped dates instead of raisins.
- Add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy and tangy flavor.
- Try a different dressing, such as a lemon vinaigrette or a tahini dressing.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
This carrot salad is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by swapping out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. Make sure to use certified gluten-free nuts if you have a gluten allergy or intolerance.
Enjoy this healthy and delicious carrot salad as a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner. It’s perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
FAQ
How long will this carrot salad keep in the fridge?
This carrot salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I use pre-shredded carrots instead of shredding them myself?
Yes, you can use pre-shredded carrots instead of shredding them yourself. However, the texture may be slightly different.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like cabbage, kale, or beets to this salad for additional flavor and nutrition.
Can I use a different kind of vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?
Yes, you can use a different type of vinegar like white wine vinegar or rice vinegar if you prefer.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I add nuts or seeds to this salad?
Yes, you can add nuts or seeds like almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for additional crunch and flavor.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, you can use honey instead of maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs, but use about 1/3 of the amount as dried herbs are more potent.
Can I use a food processor to shred the carrots?
Yes, you can use a food processor to shred the carrots, but be careful not to over-process them into a puree.
Can I add cheese to this salad?
Yes, you can add crumbled feta cheese or shredded cheddar cheese to this salad for extra flavor and protein.
