A vibrant and refreshing shaved rainbow carrot salad tossed with fresh herbs and a flavorful sesame dressing, perfect as a light side dish or appetizer.
Author:Audrey
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:7 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 27 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Salad
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Asian-inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
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 tsp white miso
1 tsp sriracha
1 tsp coconut sugar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
2 tbsp sesame seeds (for toasting)
Instructions
Toast Sesame Seeds: Heat a pan over medium heat and toast the sesame seeds until they are golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Prepare Carrots: Peel and julienne the carrots using a sharp knife or food processor and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Add Fresh Herbs: Finely chop the scallions, cilantro, and basil, then add them to the bowl with the julienned carrots. Toss gently to combine evenly.
Make the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine sesame oil, rice vinegar, low sodium Tamari, white miso, sriracha, coconut sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Blend until smooth and well combined.
Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the carrot and herb mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Chill: Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
Serve: Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad before serving for an added nutty crunch and flavor.
Notes
Use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to julienne carrots evenly for best texture.
If you don’t have fresh basil or cilantro, substitute with parsley or mint for different herb flavors.
Adjust sriracha quantity to control the heat level of the dressing.
Chilling the salad enhances the flavor melding but can be served immediately if needed.
Low sodium Tamari keeps the salad less salty; regular soy sauce can be used but adjust salt accordingly.