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Raw Carrot Salad with Lime, Cumin, and Sesame Seeds Recipe

4.9 from 85 reviews

A fresh and zesty raw carrot salad featuring thinly sliced carrots tossed with a tangy lime and apple cider vinegar dressing, lightly sweetened with agave syrup, and seasoned with coriander and cayenne for a subtle kick. Garnished with fresh parsley and toasted sesame seeds, this vibrant salad is perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 3 large carrots, peeled and ends trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro or mint

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon agave syrup or pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

  1. Prep the Carrots: Peel the carrots and trim the ends. Cut them into 3-4 inch pieces (or adjust length as preferred). Using a mandoline, slice the carrot pieces lengthwise as thinly as possible to create delicate ribbons or thin strips. Set aside.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lime juice, apple cider vinegar, agave syrup, ground coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), and kosher salt. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is well blended and slightly emulsified.
  3. Mix the Salad: Add the thinly sliced carrots, chopped parsley, and sesame seeds to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together carefully but thoroughly to ensure every carrot slice is coated evenly with the flavorful dressing.
  4. Serve & Store: The salad can be enjoyed immediately for a crisp texture or allowed to sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to let the carrots soften slightly and absorb the dressing flavors. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Using a mandoline ensures uniformly thin carrot slices for better texture and flavor absorption.
  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference or omit for a milder salad.
  • Add chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh herbal twist.
  • This salad is best consumed within 5 days for optimum freshness.
  • Allowing the salad to rest for a bit enhances flavor and softens the carrots slightly but keeps a nice crunch.

Keywords: raw carrot salad, carrot ribbon salad, vegan salad, healthy side dish, no-cook salad, lime carrot salad