Description:
Classic Carrot Summer Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that celebrates the bright flavors of fresh carrots and herbs. This salad is perfect for hot summer days, picnics, or barbecues, offering a light and crunchy texture with a hint of sweetness from the carrots. With a simple yet flavorful dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats or sandwiches.
Ingredients:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: toasted nuts or seeds, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries
Instructions:
- Prepare the Carrots:
- Peel the carrots and grate them using a box grater or a food processor fitted with a grating attachment.
- Place the grated carrots in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Onion:
- Chop the fresh parsley, cilantro, and mint leaves, and thinly slice the red onion.
- Add the chopped herbs and sliced onion to the bowl with the grated carrots.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and honey or maple syrup (if using) until well combined.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Toss:
- Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture in the large bowl.
- Toss everything together until the carrots and herbs are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to a serving dish.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add Optional Toppings:
- If desired, sprinkle the salad with toasted nuts or seeds, crumbled feta cheese, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information Estimate (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 1g
Recommendations:
- Feel free to customize this salad by adding other ingredients such as grated apple, shredded coconut, or sliced almonds.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your taste preference by adding more or less honey or maple syrup.
- For added freshness and crunch, you can toss in some chopped cucumber or bell peppers.
- This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep it covered to prevent drying out, and give it a quick toss before serving.
Enjoy this Classic Carrot Summer Salad as a light and refreshing side dish that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. It’s the perfect accompaniment to any summer meal or gathering!
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