Spicy Moroccan Carrot Salad: Vibrant North African Flavors
Moroccan Carrot Salad Recipe 🥕🥗
Overview:
Indulge in the exotic flavors of North Africa with this vibrant Moroccan Carrot Salad recipe! Bursting with aromatic spices and wholesome ingredients, it’s a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute get-togethers.
- Cuisine: Southwest Asia (Middle East), Moroccan, African, Asian
- Category: Vegetable
- Keywords: Moroccan, African, Asian, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Kosher, Potluck, Spicy, Brunch, < 30 Mins, Inexpensive
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Calories: 149 per serving
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: Adjust according to your needs
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantities |
|---|---|
| Carrots | 2 |
| Olive oil | 4 tbsp |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Cumin | 1 tsp |
| Fresh parsley | 1-2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Carrots:
- Begin by washing and peeling 2 large carrots.
- Cut the carrots into rounds about 1/2 inch thick. Ensure they are uniform for even cooking.
-
-
Cook the Carrots:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
- Add the carrot rounds to the boiling water and cook for approximately 15 minutes until they are tender but still firm.
- Be careful not to overcook the carrots as they should retain a slight crunch.
-
Cool and Slice:
- Once the carrots are cooked, drain them and allow them to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice the carrots into 1/2 inch thick rounds. Transfer them to a mixing bowl.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix the ingredients well until they form a smooth and flavorful dressing.
-
Marinate the Carrots:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the sliced carrots in the mixing bowl.
- Gently toss the carrots until they are evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring each slice is infused with the delicious flavors.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Before serving, garnish the Moroccan Carrot Salad with fresh parsley for a pop of color and an extra burst of freshness.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or starter at your next gathering, potluck, or brunch event.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 149
- Fat Content: 9.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 1.3g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 116.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 16.1g
- Fiber Content: 4.5g
- Sugar Content: 7.2g
- Protein Content: 1.7g
Tips and Variations:
- For an extra kick of heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite herbs and spices, such as coriander, turmeric, or paprika, to suit your taste preferences.
- To make it a complete meal, serve the Moroccan Carrot Salad alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu, and a side of couscous or quinoa.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious with each passing day.
Conclusion:
Elevate your culinary repertoire with this tantalizing Moroccan Carrot Salad recipe! With its exotic flavors, vibrant colors, and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or simply craving a healthy and flavorful dish, this salad has you covered. Enjoy the taste of North Africa in every bite!
