Mediterranean Carrot Salad: Fresh, Flavorful & Fun to Make
Mediterranean Carrot Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together the best of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. This delightful salad features crisp carrots and protein-packed green lentils, all tossed in a tangy lemon dressing with aromatic spices. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light meal, this salad is not only healthy but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Enjoy the refreshing combination of textures and tastes, topped with crunchy almonds and fragrant mint leaves.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium carrots
- 1 cup green lentils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Rinse the green lentils under cold water and cook in a medium pot with enough water to cover them by two inches. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 20 minutes until tender but firm. Drain any excess water.
- Peel and cut the carrots into thin matchsticks or rounds. Blanch in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes until slightly tender yet crisp. Drain immediately.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, blanched carrots, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Add toasted almonds and fresh mint leaves; toss lightly again before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg