Carrot Salad with Coriander and Sunflower Seeds

This delightful carrot salad is a refreshing and nutritious choice, perfect for any meal. Its vibrant colors and unique blend of flavors make it a standout dish that you'll return to time and again. The salad features crunchy grated carrots combined with fragrant coriander leaves, creating a fresh and aromatic experience. Roasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds add a satisfying crunch and depth, while olive oil enhances the richness of each bite. Simple to prepare, yet packed with nutrients, this salad is a great addition to your healthy meal lineup. Not only is it quick to make, but it also suits various dietary preferences. Ideal as a side dish or a light lunch, it can be easily adapted with different seeds or herbs. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, this salad is certain to impress. Its flavors intensify over time, so consider making it a bit in advance to allow the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 200 g carrots
• 200 g coriander leaves
• 200 g pumpkin or sunflower seeds

Spices & Sauce

• Olive oil
• Salt

Preparation Time

• Total time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by washing the carrots thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.
2. Peel the carrots using a vegetable peeler to ensure they are clean and smooth.
3. Grate the carrots using a coarse vegetable grater for a bit of texture and crunch.
4. Once grated, place the carrots in a large mixing bowl.
5. Wash the coriander leaves under cold water to remove any impurities.
6. Shake off the excess water or use a salad spinner to dry the leaves thoroughly.
7. Chop the coriander leaves finely, discarding tough stems if necessary.
8. Add the chopped coriander to the bowl with the grated carrots.
9. Heat a dry frying pan over medium heat to toast the seeds.
10. Add the pumpkin or sunflower seeds to the pan.
11. Stir the seeds frequently to roast them evenly and enhance their nutty flavor.
12. Once the seeds begin to brown slightly and emit a nutty aroma, remove them from the heat.
13. Allow the seeds to cool slightly before adding them to the carrot and coriander mixture.
14. Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the salad ingredients.
15. Season with salt to taste, bearing in mind that the seeds will also contribute some saltiness.
16. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly using a salad spoon or your hands.
17. Make sure the olive oil and salt are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
18. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
19. Transfer the salad to a serving dish, ensuring a colorful and appetizing presentation.
20. Enjoy your vibrant and healthy carrot salad immediately or store it in the refrigerator for later.

Tips

• For added flavor, you can include a splash of lemon juice or vinegar.
• Substitute parsley or mint if you don't have coriander on hand.
• Use a food processor if you're short on time and don't want to manually grate the carrots.

Nutrition

• Calories per serving: Approx. 200
• Protein: 3 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 11 g

Variations

• Replace sunflower seeds with walnuts for a different texture and flavor profile.
• For a sweeter touch, add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries.
• To make it a more filling meal, toss in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside a fresh baguette or whole-grain bread.
• Garnish with additional coriander leaves or a sprinkle of seeds for presentation.

Best Places

Le Botaniste - A charming eatery offering a delightful selection of plant-based dishes, including stunning salads. Location: 123 Rue de la Liberté, Paris, France.

Green Ginger - Famous for its fresh and creative salads, this spot is perfect for health enthusiasts. Location: 456 Market St, San Francisco, USA.

The Garden - Known for its lush surroundings and organic menu options, this is a top choice for vibrant salads. Location: 789 Elm Ave, Sydney, Australia.

Roots & Shoots - A beloved café offering a wide range of colorful and nutrient-packed salads. Location: 101 Orchard Rd, Singapore, Singapore.

Fresh Leaf Café - Celebrated for its innovative salads and sustainable practices. Location: 202 Maple St, Toronto, Canada.

Sprout - With a focus on local produce, their diverse salad options are a hit with visitors. Location: 303 Pine Rd, Wellington, New Zealand.

Herbivore Kitchen - Specializes in fresh, wholesome meals, with an extensive salad menu. Location: 404 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.

Grand Salads - Offers a diverse range of salads, perfect for those looking for gluten-free and vegan options. Location: 505 Willow Lane, London, UK.

Harvest Kitchen - Known for farm-to-table dishes, providing unique salad flavors. Location: 606 Cedar St, Cape Town, South Africa.

Zest - A culinary gem offering creative salads in a stylish environment. Location: 707 Olive Rd, Rome, Italy.