The Best Moroccan Carrot Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Moroccan carrot salad is not only incredibly flavorful but also easy to make. The carrots are perfectly tender yet retain a nice crunch, and the dressing is the ideal balance of tart, savory, and aromatic. The combination of cumin, paprika, and sumac adds depth and warmth, while fresh cilantro or parsley brings a refreshing touch. It’s a simple dish that’s bursting with flavor and makes a great accompaniment to a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes.

Ingredients

• 12 large carrots, peeled and trimmed
• 3 teaspoons sea salt or 1 ½ teaspoons table salt (see note 1)
• ⅓ cup lemon juice (see note 2)
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon sumac (see note 5)
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the carrots: Peel and trim the carrots. Then, cut them into thin rounds or julienne them, depending on your preference.
2. Blanch the carrots: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the salt. Add the sliced carrots and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are just tender but still crisp. Drain the carrots and set them aside to cool. You can also serve the carrots raw for a crunchier texture, if preferred.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, cumin, and sumac until well combined.
4. Toss the salad: Place the cooled carrots in a large mixing bowl and pour the dressing over them. Toss the carrots well to ensure they are evenly coated in the dressing.
5. Add herbs: Stir in the chopped cilantro or parsley, and give the salad one final toss.
6. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 6 servings.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for blanching the carrots)
• Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

• Add a protein: You can make this salad more substantial by adding chickpeas, lentils, or even grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili to give the salad an extra layer of heat.
• Nutty crunch: Add toasted almonds, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds on top for a delightful crunch.
• Raisin or date addition: To balance the tanginess, add some raisins or chopped dates for a bit of sweetness.
• Herb swap: You can use mint instead of cilantro or parsley for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, so it’s great for making ahead.
• Reheating: It is best served chilled or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. However, if you prefer to serve it warm, you can lightly warm the carrots before tossing them with the dressing.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-shredded carrots for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-shredded carrots, but freshly sliced or julienned carrots provide a better texture. If using pre-shredded carrots, you may not need to blanch them.

2. Is this Moroccan carrot salad spicy?

No, the salad is not inherently spicy. However, you can adjust the heat by adding cayenne pepper or fresh chili to the dressing if you prefer a spicy kick.

3. Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! In fact, it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors have more time to meld.

4. What can I substitute for sumac?

If you can’t find sumac, you can substitute it with a mixture of lemon zest and a little bit of salt for a tangy twist, though the flavor will be a bit different.

5. Can I make this salad without the lemon juice?

Lemon juice is key for the tangy flavor, but if you’re out, you can substitute with vinegar (such as apple cider vinegar) for a similar acidity.

6. Can I serve this salad warm?

While this salad is typically served cold or at room temperature, you can serve it warm if you prefer. Just allow the carrots to cool slightly after blanching before tossing with the dressing.

7. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh, though the flavor will be more concentrated. Use half the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh (i.e., 1 teaspoon of dried cilantro or parsley for 2 teaspoons of fresh).

8. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like roasted bell peppers, cucumbers, or even roasted sweet potatoes to add more texture and flavor.

9. Is this Moroccan carrot salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.

10. What can I serve this Moroccan carrot salad with?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, couscous, falafel, or as part of a Mediterranean-style spread. It also makes a great addition to any picnic or barbecue.

Conclusion

The best Moroccan carrot salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that will brighten up any meal with its vibrant colors and aromatic spices. The combination of tender carrots, tangy lemon dressing, and fresh herbs creates a refreshing, healthy side dish that complements a wide variety of main courses. Whether you’re looking for a quick side or a dish to impress your guests, this Moroccan carrot salad is sure to become a go-to favorite!

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