Classic Carrot Summer Salad

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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:

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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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