Vibrant, refreshing, and full of North African flair, this Moroccan Salad of Raw Grated Carrots with Citrus Cinnamon Dressing is a sensory delight. Shredded carrots form the crisp foundation, perfectly complemented by a zesty dressing made from fresh orange and lemon juice, earthy cinnamon, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Juicy raisins, fragrant mint leaves, and a sprinkle of optional toasted almonds add bursts of flavor and texture that elevate this dish to gourmet status. Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, this gluten-free, vegetarian salad is ideal as a light side dish or a standout addition to mezze plates. Bursting with citrusy brightness and warm spice, it's a refreshing way to enjoy raw veggies with a Moroccan twist!
Wash and peel the carrots, then grate them using a box grater or food processor. Transfer the grated carrots to a large mixing bowl.
Zest the orange and set aside the zest. Juice the orange and the half lemon and pour the juices into a small bowl.
In the same small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, honey, ground cinnamon, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the grated carrots and toss gently to ensure the carrots are evenly coated.
Add the orange zest, raisins, and chopped fresh mint leaves to the bowl. Mix lightly to combine.
For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle the salad with toasted almonds just before serving, if using.
Let the salad marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish.
Calories |
999 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 44.8 g | 57% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.1 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 958 mg | 42% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 152.3 g | 55% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 25.0 g | 89% | |
| Total Sugars | 107.1 g | ||
| Protein | 15.1 g | 30% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 385 mg | 30% | |
| Iron | 4.9 mg | 27% | |
| Potassium | 2571 mg | 55% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.