Easy Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad for Spring

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This shaved rainbow carrot sesame salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for your spring gatherings. Bright, crispy carrots combined with fragrant herbs create a colorful feast for your eyes and palate. It’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead, allowing you to enjoy this delightful crunch at your next picnic or dinner party. Serve it chilled for a refreshing side or a light meal!

Why You’ll Love This Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad

This salad is not only beautiful but also packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of fresh carrots and aromatic herbs, tossed in a savory sesame dressing, makes every bite a burst of springtime goodness. Its light and crisp texture contrasts wonderfully with rich main dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Delicious shaved rainbow carrot sesame salad with herbs and sesame seeds

Essential Tools for Preparation

Recommended Kitchen Equipment

Sharp knife or food processor
Mixing bowl
Small pan for toasting
Blender or whisk
Refrigerator for chilling

Importance of Each Tool

A sharp knife or food processor is essential for julienning the carrots quickly and efficiently. A mixing bowl helps combine all the ingredients easily, while a small pan is needed to toast the sesame seeds to perfection. Using a blender or whisk ensures that the dressing is smooth and well-mixed, creating a cohesive flavor throughout the salad.

Ingredients for Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad

1 1/2 lbs (680g) carrots, peeled and julienned
1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
1 1/2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
3 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tbsp sesame oil
1 1/2 tbsp low sodium Tamari (or soy sauce)
1 tbsp mild white miso
1 tsp sriracha
1 tsp coconut sugar
1 tsp finely minced fresh garlic
1 tsp grated fresh ginger

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a small pan over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds for 5-7 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat.
Wash and peel the carrots, then julienne them using a sharp knife or food processor. Place the julienned carrots in a large mixing bowl.
Add the chopped scallions, cilantro, and basil to the carrots and mix well.
In a blender or food processor, combine the dressing ingredients and blend until smooth. If a blender is not available, whisk the miso and Tamari until smooth, then incorporate the remaining dressing ingredients.
Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all pieces are coated.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to enhance the flavors.

Serving Suggestions for Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, tofu, or as part of a flavorful rice bowl. You can also serve it as a vibrant side dish at a spring barbecue or picnic, bringing a burst of color and freshness to your table.

Refreshing shaved rainbow carrot sesame salad with vibrant colors and flavors.

Tips for Perfecting Your Salad

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Allow the salad to chill before serving to enhance taste.
Toasting sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor.
Adjust dressing ingredients to suit personal taste preferences.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Be careful not to skip toasting the sesame seeds, as this crucial step adds depth of flavor. Also, avoid using wilted herbs; fresh herbs make a significant difference in the salad’s overall taste and presentation. Lastly, ensure you chill the salad adequately before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage Instructions

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the salad’s crispness. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.

Variations to Try

You can add other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as mint or parsley to customize the salad to your taste.

FAQs

How do you shave carrots for salad?

To shave carrots for salad, use a sharp knife or a food processor to julienne them into thin strips. This technique helps create a tender and more enjoyable texture.

Is carrot sesame salad vegan?

Yes, this carrot sesame salad is vegan since it contains no animal products.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just remember to store the dressing separately to keep the salad fresh.

What dressing is used for carrot salad?

The dressing for this carrot salad consists of rice vinegar, sesame oil, Tamari (or soy sauce), white miso, sriracha, coconut sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.

How long does carrot salad last in the fridge?

Carrot salad can last in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

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Conclusion

This shaved rainbow carrot sesame salad is a delightful and healthy addition to your spring menu. With its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors, it’s sure to impress your guests. For more inspiring recipes, visit Pinterest, where you can find countless ideas to elevate your culinary adventures.