Carrot Salad

Carrot Salad

Low calorie, full flavour, everything you want in a salad! I started making this as a cool meal on a hot day, it’s simple, refreshing and has that bit of crunch in it we all want.

Prep Time: 15 minutes mins
Cook Time: 15 minutes mins
Servings: 4 serves

Ingredients 

  • ▢ 7 Carrots medium, peeled
  • ▢ 1 1/2 tbsp sugar Natvia is recommended as a substitute but see notes below for further steps
  • ▢ 1 lemon zest and juiced
  • ▢ 1 lime zest and juiced
  • ▢ 3 tbsp mirin seasoning
  • ▢ 1 tbsp dijon mustard
  • ▢ 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • ▢ 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
  • ▢ 1 red chili finely chopped
  • ▢ 4 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • ▢ 2 tsp ginger grated
  • ▢ 1 tbsp coriander chopped
  • ▢ 1 green onion finely chopped
  • ▢ 1/4 cup roasted peanuts chopped

Instructions 

  • peel carrots and slice into thin ribbons using a peeler or mandoline.
  • in a bowl, whisk sugar with lemon and lime juice, mirin seasoning, mustard, sesame oil, and soy sauce until sugar dissolves.
  • add chopped chili, lemon and lime zest, garlic, ginger, and coriander. Mix well.
  • toss carrot ribbons in dressing until evenly coated.
  • plate and sprinkle with peanuts and green onion.
  • serve immediately or chill slightly.

Notes

  • Sugar Substitute (Keto / Low Carb): You can swap the sugar for Natvia or Erythritol (1:1 ratio).
    • Important: Granular sweeteners don’t dissolve well in cold liquid. Microwave the sweetener with the lime juice for 10-15 seconds until warm, whisk to dissolve, then add the remaining ingredients.
  • Carrot Cutting Tip: For the prettiest presentation, use a Y-peeler or mandoline to create long, even ribbons or use the Karoto carrot sharpener to make cute curls.
  • Make Ahead: This salad is actually better after sitting for 15-20 minutes as the carrots soften slightly and absorb the flavors. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Sweetness Level: Mirin and sugar add balance to the citrus and mustard. If you prefer less sweetness, start with 1 tablespoon of sugar and taste before adding more.
  • Nut-Free Option: Skip the peanuts or replace them with toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried shallots for crunch.
  • Extra Tang: Add a splash of rice vinegar or a little extra lime juice if you prefer a sharper dressing.
  • Oil Swap: Sesame oil gives a distinct nutty flavour, but you can use olive oil or avocado oil if preferred.
  • Herb Options: Try swapping coriander for mint or basil for a different flavour profile.

Nutrition

Calories: 259kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Sodium: 476mg | Potassium: 536mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 17984IU | Vitamin C: 32mg | Calcium: 77mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.