This Carrot Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Sweet carrots, crunchy pine nuts, and fresh herbs are tossed in a tangy honey mustard dressing, creating a simple yet satisfying salad that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Refreshing: The combination of sweet carrots, tangy dressing, and crunchy pine nuts creates a delightful flavor and texture combination.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this salad is a breeze to assemble.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish for grilled meats, fish, or sandwiches, or enjoy it as a light lunch or snack on its own.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful salad:
- Extra virgin olive oil: Used for both the dressing and toasting the pine nuts.
- Lemon juice: Adds a tangy kick and balances the sweetness of the honey (if using).
- Whole grain mustard: Or Dijon mustard, for a tangy and slightly spicy flavor.
- Honey: Optional, adds a touch of sweetness to the dressing. You can also use a sugar-free honey substitute.
- Sea salt and black pepper: To taste.
- Pine nuts: Toasted for extra flavor and crunch.
- Carrots: Peeled and finely grated, these provide a sweet and crunchy base for the salad.
- Green onions: Optional, adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, adds a fresh herb flavor and vibrant green color.
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.
How to Make Carrot Salad
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts
Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over low heat. Add the pine nuts and cook for about 5 minutes, or until lightly browned and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots, toasted pine nuts, chopped green onions (if using), and chopped parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Chill (Optional)
If you have time, refrigerate the salad for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use fresh ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh parsley and freshly grated carrots.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you’re using honey, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
- Add other ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients to this salad, such as raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped walnuts.
How to Serve Carrot Salad
- Side Dish: This Carrot Salad is a perfect side dish for grilled meats, fish, sandwiches, or burgers.
- Light Lunch: Enjoy it as a light and refreshing lunch on its own or with a side of crusty bread.
- Potluck Favorite: It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to transport and serve at potlucks or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can use other nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans, instead of pine nuts.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, you can omit the honey or use a vegan honey substitute. Make sure to use a vegan mayonnaise if you’re adding it to the salad.
Can I add other herbs to this salad?
Absolutely! Fresh mint, cilantro, or chives would be delicious additions.
How can I make this salad spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing.
There you have it! A simple, refreshing, and flavorful recipe for Carrot Salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Print
Carrot Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Description
This Carrot Salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It features finely grated carrots, crunchy pine nuts, and a tangy honey-mustard dressing, making it a healthy and satisfying addition to your meal.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided (3 tablespoons and 1 tablespoon)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard (or Dijon mustard)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, or sugar-free honey)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 4 large carrots, peeled and finely grated (about 4 cups)
- 3 medium green onions, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Toast Pine Nuts: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over low heat. Add pine nuts and cook for about 5 minutes, until lightly browned and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine grated carrots, toasted pine nuts, green onions (if using), and parsley.
- Dress and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld, if desired.
Notes
- You can use any type of mustard you prefer, but whole-grain mustard adds a nice texture and flavor.
- If you don’t have pine nuts, you can substitute with chopped walnuts or pecans.
- For a vegan version, omit the honey or use a vegan honey alternative.
- This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 220kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
