Carrot and Parsley Salad Recipe

Weeknight dinner: Carrot Crunch and Refreshing Parsley Salad

This Easy Carrot and Fresh Parsley Salad is not only a visual delight with its vibrant colors but also a wholesome and nutritious addition to your family meals. The combination of sweet carrots, fragrant parsley, and the crunch of pumpkin seeds creates a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Enjoy this simple yet delicious salad that’s perfect for any occasion!

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Carrot and Parsley Salad Recipe

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This Carrot and Parsley Salad is colorful, healthy, and tasty—ideal for family meals. The mix of sweet carrots, fresh parsley, and crunchy pumpkin seeds makes it a delicious and easy-to-enjoy dish for any occasion!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

Salad Dressing

• 2-3 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or your favorite)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• pinch of salt (adjust to taste)
• pinch of black pepper

Salad

• 4 large carrots
• 1 bunch of fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
• 3-4 green onions (scallions), optional

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, mustard, honey (or sugar), salt, and black pepper. Give it a good mix until it becomes a smooth and well-combined dressing.
2. Heat the dry skillet (no oil is needed). Once the skillet is hot, add the pumpkin seeds in a single layer. Allow the seeds to toast for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Peel and grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor. Add shredded carrots to a large mixing bowl.
4. Wash and chop fresh parsley, chop spring onions if using. Add parsley and spring onions to a bowl with carrots. Toss in the toasted pumpkin seeds.
5. Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until the carrots, parsley, pumpkin seeds, and green onions are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to mingle and enhances the taste.

Just Simple Recipes: Bites and Bits Essentials for Carrot and Parsley Salad Recipe

How to shred the carrots: Box Grater VS Food Processor

Either method works well for shredding carrots, whether it’s the box grater, food processor, or even a mandolin (watch those fingers!). If you’re dealing with just four carrots, opting for the box grater makes sense—no need to hassle with washing and drying the food processor and its attachments. While a box grater is practical for small batches, the food processor shines in efficiency for larger gatherings, saving time and effort without compromising on consistent texture and flavor distribution. Choose the tool that fits your needs, whether it’s a solo meal or a big family feast.

The best dressing for Carrot and Parsley Salad

The perfect dressing for this salad involves a delightful blend of olive oil, mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper. For a zesty twist, try adding a splash of fresh lemon juice or not just usual mustard, but Dijon mustard. Enhance the flavor with a pinch of cumin, chili, paprika or additional herbs (coriander) for a customized dressing that elevates this salad to new heights!

Why to toast the pumpkin seeds for the salad?

Toasting pumpkin seeds for the salad imparts a rich, nutty flavor and enhances their crunchiness, contributing to the salad’s texture. For a diverse twist, consider adding sunflower seeds or walnuts, introducing a medley of flavors and textures that harmonize with the freshness of the Carrot and Parsley Salad. This simple step elevates the overall taste, creating a delightful and satisfying dish.

Can I prepare Carrot and Parsley Salad in advance?

For optimal freshness and crunchiness, it’s recommended to prepare and dress the salad right before serving (but I would recommend to let is soak and marinate for 30 minutes). If making in advance, keep the shredded carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day and dress the salad just before enjoying.

Serving and pairing ideas for Carrot and Parsley Salad

Pair the Carrot and Parsley Salad with an array of main courses, such as grilled chicken, pork or steak for a well-rounded meal, or pair this appetizer with any vegetarian main dish. Elevate your sandwiches or wraps by adding this salad, offering a delightful crunch and burst of flavor. Whether hosting a holiday gathering or a potluck, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a fantastic addition to any festive occasion. The vibrant colors and fresh taste make it an appealing choice that complements the season’s festivities.