If you’re looking for a quick and colorful dish, the Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad in 20 Minutes is a perfect choice. Packed with fresh flavors and eye-catching hues, this salad not only pleases the palate but also brightens up any plate. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
In a world where time is of the essence, this delightful carrot and sesame salad shines as a go-to recipe. The vibrant colors of the rainbow carrots, combined with a zesty dressing, make this salad a feast for the eyes and a burst of flavor. Whether you’re prepping a weeknight dinner or planning a picnic, this delightful dish is sure to impress your guests and add a pop of color to your table.
Ingredients for Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad in 20 Minutes:
To create your own vibrant shaved rainbow carrot sesame salad in just 20 minutes, gather the following fresh ingredients:
– 4 medium carrots, washed and peeled, julienned for a delightful crunch
– ¼ cup scallions, chopped for a mild onion flavor and a burst of color
– 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped to enhance the salad’s bright profile
– 2 tbsp basil, chopped; feel free to substitute with mint for a refreshing twist
– 1.5 tbsp toasted sesame seeds to impart a nutty crunch
– ¼ cup rice vinegar for tanginess and sweetness in the dressing
– 2 tbsp sesame oil to add a rich, toasty flavor
– 2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce for a savory umami kick; opt for gluten-free tamari if preferred
– 1 tbsp white miso (optional) for added creaminess
– 1 tbsp sriracha to spice things up according to your taste
– 1 tbsp coconut sugar for a hint of sweetness; brown sugar or maple syrup work too
– 1 clove garlic, minced for aromatic depth
– 1 tsp ginger, grated; fresh ginger provides optimal flavor
Simply toss these ingredients together to create a bright and fresh salad side. For another quick recipe, check out this flavor-packed tuna and white bean salad that pairs wonderfully with your new dish! Enjoy the colorful bites that are as nutritious as they are delicious.
How to Prepare Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad in 20 Minutes:
Begin your culinary adventure by julienning the 4 medium carrots, giving them a beautiful crunch that is essential for the salad’s texture. Next, chop ¼ cup of scallions and 2 tablespoons each of cilantro and basil (or mint) to enhance the salad’s aromatic profile. In a large bowl, combine the carrots, scallions, cilantro, and basil.
To prepare the dressing, whisk together ¼ cup of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of tamari (or soy sauce), and 1 tablespoon of white miso (if using). Add in a clove of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, 1 tablespoon of coconut sugar, and 1 tablespoon of Sriracha for a spicy kick. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
Toss the dressing over your vibrant salad mix and finish with 1.5 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds for that nutty crunch. In just 20 minutes, you can create this colorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. To complement your meal, consider serving it alongside a flavor-packed tuna and white bean salad for a balanced, vibrant dinner.
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Delicious Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad in 20 Minutes
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad comes together in just 20 minutes. It’s a refreshing and colorful dish, perfect as a side or a light lunch.
Ingredients
Carrots: 4 medium
washed and peeled; Scallions: ¼ cup
chopped; Cilantro: 2 tbsp
chopped; Basil: 2 tbsp
chopped; Sesame seeds: 1.5 tbsp
toasted; Rice vinegar: ¼ cup; Sesame oil: 2 tablespoon; Tamari or soy sauce: 2 tablespoon; White miso: 1 tablespoon; Sriracha: 1 tablespoon; Coconut sugar: 1 tablespoon; Garlic: 1 clove
minced; Ginger: 1 tsp
grated
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the julienned carrots, chopped scallions, cilantro, and basil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, tamari or soy sauce, white miso, sriracha, coconut sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss until well coated.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of sriracha. For a twist, you can replace basil with mint.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad, carrot salad, quick salad, healthy recipes, colorful salad, sesame dressing
Flavorful Dressing for your Rainbow Carrot Salad:
To elevate your colorful shaved rainbow carrot sesame salad, a zesty dressing is key. Begin by whisking together soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of fresh lime juice. This combination balances salty and tangy flavors, enhancing the natural sweetness of the carrots. For added complexity, mix in a teaspoon of honey and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. This infusion generates a dynamic contrast in your salad, making each bite unforgettable.
Once your dressing is ready, toss it generously with the vibrant carrots, ensuring every ribbon is coated. Let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For an added treat, serve your salad alongside a delicious main dish like Flavor-Packed Tuna and White Bean Salad for a well-rounded meal. For a complete recipe, check out the full guide on preparing your Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad. Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy this quick, healthy delight!
How to Serve Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad in 20 Minutes:
Serving the vibrant shaved rainbow carrot sesame salad is as easy as it is delicious. Start by arranging a generous portion of the colorful salad on a large plate or in a clear glass bowl. This presentation showcases the vibrant hues of the carrots, making it visually appealing. Drizzle your favorite sesame dressing over the top for a delightful finish. For an extra crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped scallions or cilantro as garnishes.
When serving, pair this salad with a protein-packed dish like the Flavor-Packed Tuna and White Bean Salad to create a balanced meal. This combination enhances flavors and adds heartiness to your dining experience. For a refreshing beverage, consider matching your meal with a cup of Iced Golden Milk Turmeric Latte. Through these pairings, you’ll create a colorful and delicious plate that impresses guests while offering them nutritional benefits. Enjoy this nutritious dish at picnics, gatherings, or as a light lunch!
Storage Tips for Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad in 20 Minutes:
To keep your Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad fresh, it’s crucial to store it properly. Begin by placing any leftover salad in an airtight container. This prevents moisture and air from degrading the colorful mix. Ideally, enjoy the salad within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture. If the carrots start to lose their crunch, try using them in another dish, like the Flavor-Packed Tuna and White Bean Salad, for a delicious twist.
When preparing the salad, consider separating the dressing from the vegetables if you know you’ll have leftovers. This prevents the carrots from becoming soggy. Store the dressing in a small jar in the fridge and mix it in right before serving. This way, you’ll maintain that lively texture and flavor! Lastly, remember to keep your salad away from strong-smelling items in the fridge to preserve its bright aroma and taste.
Nutritional Benefits of Rainbow Carrots:
Rainbow carrots are not only visually stunning but also packed with essential nutrients. Rich in antioxidants, they boast vitamins A, C, and K, enhancing immune function and promoting healthy vision. Moreover, their fiber content aids digestion. Pair this nutritious salad with a flavorful dish like Flavor-Packed Tuna and White Bean Salad for an even more balanced meal. Enjoy your vibrant shaved rainbow carrot sesame salad in 20 minutes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the main ingredient in this colorful salad?
The star of the Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad is undoubtedly the rainbow carrots. Their vibrant colors make the dish visually appealing and provide a variety of nutrients, adding a unique texture that complements the crunchy sesame dressing.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! While the salad is delightful on its own, feel free to enhance it with proteins like grilled chicken or tofu. This turn adds a satisfying element, transforming the salad into a more filling meal, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
The beauty of the Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad lies in its quick preparation. In just 20 minutes, you can have a refreshing and nutritious dish ready to enjoy, making it ideal even for busy weeknights.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The salad is fantastic for meal prepping. You can shave the carrots and store them in the refrigerator. Just mix in the dressing right before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh. This makes it a great option for quick lunches.
What is the flavor profile of the sesame dressing?
The sesame dressing is nutty and slightly sweet, perfectly balancing the earthiness of the carrots. It enhances the overall taste, making each bite of this rainbow carrot salad a delightful experience.
Are there any variations I can try?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch. You might also enjoy a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick or try incorporating toasted nuts for added depth, similar to the way they’re used in an irresistible tuna and white bean salad.