Carrot salad with orange and honey dressing

Carrot Salad with Orange and Honey Dressing

A colorful and nutritious salad that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a citrus orange and honey dressing. Perfect as a light dish or healthy side, this recipe provides vitamins, antioxidants, and a fresh, balanced flavor.

Preparation Time

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Total: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 people
• Difficulty: Easy
• Type: Healthy salad

Main Ingredients

For the Base Salad

• 3 large carrots, peeled and grated into thin strips
• ¼ cup caramelized or toasted walnuts
• ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese
• ¼ cup dried cranberries or pomegranate
• ½ cup arugula or baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon sesame or sunflower seeds

For the Citrus Orange Dressing

• 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon pure honey
• 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ½!– /wp:list-item –>
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Required Utensils

• Grater or mandoline
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for the dressing
• Hand whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board

Step-by-Step Preparation

Making the Homemade Dressing

1. In a small bowl, pour the freshly squeezed orange juice.
2. Add the natural honey and the Dijon mustard.
3. Incorporate the white balsamic vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the olive oil in a thin stream while constantly whisking until emulsified.

Assembling the Salad

1. Grate fresh carrots into thin strips or use a mandoline for thin slices.
2. In a large bowl, place the grated carrots as a base.
3. Add washed and dried arugula or baby spinach.
4. Incorporate dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds.
5. Scatter the caramelized or toasted walnuts.
6. Add the orange and honey dressing, mixing gently.
7. Finish with crumbled goat cheese and seeds.

Tips and Variations

• For more freshness: Add fresh orange zest at the end.
• Vegan option: Substitute honey with agave and omit the cheese.
• Crunchy variation: Add green apple julienned.
• Extra protein: Incorporate cooked quinoa or roasted chickpeas.
• Additional vegetables: Combine with grated beetroot for more color and nutrients.

Nutritional Benefits

• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A
• Walnuts: Provide omega-3 fatty acids
• Arugula: High in antioxidants and minerals
• Seeds: Source of plant protein and fiber
• Citrus dressing: Vitamin C and natural antioxidants

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving)

Ideal Occasions to Serve

• Light and healthy lunches
• Summer dinners
• Side dish for meats or fish
• Buffets and events
• Meals to take to work

Carrots are one of the most versatile vegetables in the kitchen, and this salad takes advantage of their natural sweetness to create a balanced and nutritious dish. By grating them finely, an ideal texture is obtained that perfectly absorbs the flavors of the citrus dressing. Carrots not only add a vibrant color to the salad, but also a high content of beta-carotenes, essential for eye health and a strong immune system.

The orange and honey dressing is the star of this recipe, providing a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity. Orange, rich in vitamin C, enhances the flavor of the carrots while natural honey adds a touch of sweetness without the need for refined sugars. Extra virgin olive oil completes this vinaigrette, providing healthy fats that aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins present in vegetables.

The combination of textures is another notable aspect of this salad. Candied walnuts provide a sweet crunch that contrasts with the creaminess of goat cheese, while dried cranberries add small touches of concentrated sweetness. Green leaves like arugula complement with their slight bitterness, creating a complete gastronomic experience in every bite.

This recipe is incredibly adaptable depending on the season. In summer, you can add red berries fresh or diced peaches for a more refreshing touch. In autumn, apples and pears combine wonderfully with the flavor profile of carrots and orange. For winter, consider adding some diced roasted pumpkin for a more substantial and comforting dish.

—

Frequently Asked Questions about Carrot Salad with Orange Dressing