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Shaved rainbow carrot salad with sesame dressing in a colorful bowl

Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad

A vibrant and crunchy salad featuring shaved rainbow carrots and a flavorful sesame dressing that elevates any meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients
  • 2 cups rainbow carrots, peeled and shaved into ribbons Regular orange carrots can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Can substitute with parsley or a mint-parsley mix.
  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted Toasting is essential for flavor.
Dressing Ingredients
  • 3 tablespoons sesame oil Use the toasted variety for best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar Can substitute with white wine vinegar.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce Low-sodium version is recommended.
  • 1 tablespoon honey Can substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • To taste salt and pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Shave the rainbow carrots into ribbons using a vegetable peeler or mandoline.
  2. Thinly slice the cucumber and red bell pepper. Chop the green onions and cilantro.
Mix Salad
  1. In a large bowl, combine the shaved rainbow carrots, cucumber, red bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds.
  2. Toss gently with your hands, treating the carrot ribbons delicately.
Make Dressing
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine
  1. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat all the vegetables.
Let Sit
  1. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve
  1. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional sesame seeds if desired.
  2. Optional: Add crushed red pepper or chopped nuts for extra crunch.

Notes

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. For meal prep, store veggies and dressing separately and combine shortly before serving to maintain freshness.