Description

A fresh and vibrant carrot salad featuring finely grated carrots, toasted pine nuts, and a zesty lemon-mustard dressing. This quick and easy recipe offers a perfect balance of crunchy textures and bright flavors, ideal as a light side dish or healthy snack.

Ingredients

Dressing

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard (or Dijon mustard)
1 tablespoon honey (optional, or sugar-free honey)
¼ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Salad

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup pine nuts
4 large carrots, peeled and finely grated (about 4 cups)
3 medium green onions, chopped (optional)
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, whole-grain mustard, honey (if using), sea salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Toast Pine Nuts: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over low heat. Add the pine nuts and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the finely grated carrots, toasted pine nuts, chopped green onions (if using), and chopped fresh parsley. Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
Dress and Serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Optionally, refrigerate the salad for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

For a nut-free version, omit pine nuts and substitute with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
If you prefer a vegan option, omit the honey or use a plant-based sweetener.
Grate the carrots finely to ensure the dressing coats the salad evenly and to enhance the texture.
This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Adding chopped fresh herbs like mint or cilantro can add a refreshing twist.