Description
This Warm Spiced Citrus and Carrot Salad with Lemon Dressing is a vibrant and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender sautéed carrots infused with warming spices, fresh citrus segments, aromatic herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect as a side or light meal, it balances sweetness and spice while offering a fresh, colorful presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1 blood orange (optional), peeled and segmented
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons roasted pistachios or almonds (optional)
Lemon Dressing
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots: Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the sliced carrots along with ground cumin, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 8 to 10 minutes until the carrots are tender and lightly caramelized, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Make the Dressing: While the carrots cook, whisk together fresh lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, olive oil, and salt and pepper in a small bowl until well combined to create a bright and tangy lemon dressing.
- Combine the Salad: Once the carrots are done, transfer them to a serving bowl. Gently toss with orange segments, optional blood orange segments, thinly sliced red onion, chopped fresh mint, and chopped fresh parsley to incorporate fresh flavors and aromas.
- Dress and Garnish: Drizzle the lemon dressing over the salad, tossing lightly to coat all ingredients evenly. Sprinkle roasted pistachios or almonds over the top if using for added crunch and texture.
- Serve: Serve the salad warm or at room temperature as a refreshing and nutritious side dish or light meal.
Notes
- This salad pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grain bowls.
- For extra flavor and to make it a complete meal, add a few crumbles of feta cheese or a handful of cooked quinoa.
