Description
A vibrant and refreshing Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad featuring julienned carrots tossed with fresh herbs and a flavorful sesame miso dressing. This easy-to-make, chilled salad is perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack, bursting with Asian-inspired flavors and a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1 1/2 lbs carrots, peeled and julienned
- 1/4 cup scallions, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Dressing
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp low sodium Tamari (or soy sauce)
- 1 tbsp white miso
- 1 tsp sriracha
- 1 tsp coconut sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds (for toasting)
Instructions
- Toast sesame seeds: Heat a pan over medium heat and toast 2 tablespoons sesame seeds until golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prepare carrots: Peel and julienne 1 1/2 pounds of carrots using a sharp knife or a food processor. Transfer the shredded carrots to a large mixing bowl.
- Add fresh herbs: Add 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil to the carrots. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon low sodium Tamari or soy sauce, 1 tablespoon white miso, 1 teaspoon sriracha, 1 teaspoon coconut sugar, 1 clove minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Toss salad with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the carrot and herb mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure the carrots are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and enhances the taste and texture of the salad.
Notes
- To julienne carrots quickly, use a mandoline or food processor with a julienne blade.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your preferred spice level.
- You can substitute fresh basil with mint or parsley if desired.
- This salad is best served chilled and consumed within 2 days for maximum freshness.
- For a nut-free version, omit sesame seeds and sesame oil and substitute with toasted sunflower seeds and olive oil.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: carrot salad, sesame salad, Asian salad, vegan salad, fresh herb salad, shredded carrot salad, healthy side dish, gluten free salad
