Carrot Ribbon Salad with Lime Dressing
A bright and refreshing Carrot Ribbon Salad with a tangy lime dressing, perfect as a healthy and vibrant side dish or light lunch. Crisp carrot ribbons are tossed in a zesty lime, olive oil, and honey dressing, enhanced with fresh herbs and optional toasted nuts or seeds for extra texture and flavor.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan (if using agave instead of honey)
Main Ingredients
- 3–4 medium fresh carrots, peeled into ribbons
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup toasted nuts or seeds (e.g., almonds, pumpkin seeds)
- Slices of avocado
- Grated fresh ginger (1 teaspoon)
- Pinch of red chili flakes or chopped jalapeño
- Thin cucumber or zucchini ribbons
- Prepare the Carrots: Wash and peel the carrots. Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, slice the carrots into long, thin ribbons. Aim for consistent thickness to ensure an even texture that feels tender but still crisp.
- Make the Lime Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, honey (or agave), salt, and pepper until fully combined. Adjust sweetness or acidity to suit your taste preferences.
- Toss the Salad: Place the carrot ribbons in a large bowl and pour the lime dressing over them. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every ribbon is lightly coated with the dressing.
- Add Herbs and Optional Extras: Chop fresh cilantro or parsley and sprinkle it over the salad. If using nuts or seeds, toast them lightly and sprinkle on top to add texture and extra flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the carrots to soften slightly.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice for the brightest flavor.
- Keep the carrot ribbons chilled to maintain crispness.
- Cut carrot ribbons evenly for better texture and visual appeal.
- Lightly toast nuts or seeds to enhance their flavor without overpowering the salad.
- Add honey or agave gradually to balance the dressing’s acidity without making it too sweet.
- Prepare dressing and carrots separately and toss just before serving for best texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, preferably keeping dressing separate.
- This salad is best served fresh and is not suitable for freezing or reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: carrot salad, lime dressing, fresh salad, gluten free, vegan option, healthy side dish, easy recipe