Alright, salad lovers, let’s talk about a side dish that’s going to brighten up your day – the Simple Carrot Salad! We’re talking crisp, julienned carrots, a tangy Dijon vinaigrette, and a burst of fresh herbs. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and guess what? It’s so easy to throw together, you’ll be making it all the time. Whether you need a quick lunch side, a potluck superstar, or just a healthy snack, this salad has got you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crisp & Refreshing: The julienned carrots provide a delightful crunch that’s simply irresistible.
Tangy Vinaigrette: The Dijon vinaigrette is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.
Quick & Easy: We’re talking 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy days and impromptu gatherings.
Versatile & Vibrant: This salad pairs well with just about anything and adds a pop of color to your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our fresh, vibrant ingredients:

White Wine Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick to the vinaigrette.
Dijon Mustard: Emulsifies the dressing and adds a sharp, savory note.
Sugar or Maple Syrup: Sweetens the dressing and balances the acidity.
Kosher Salt: Enhances the flavors.
Olive Oil: The base of our vinaigrette, smooth and flavorful.
Carrots: Julienned, for a crisp and beautiful salad.
Green Onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and fresh crunch.
Chopped Parsley: Provides a fresh, herbaceous note.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to add your own special touch? Here are some fun ideas:

Raisin Romance: Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
Nutty Delight: Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts over the salad for added crunch.
Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of lemon or orange juice to the vinaigrette for a citrusy twist.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.

How to Make Simple Carrot Salad

Step 1: Whisk the Vinaigrette

In a medium bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar or maple syrup, and kosher salt. Gradually mix in the olive oil.

Step 2: Prep the Carrots

Julienne the carrots using a julienne peeler, food processor, or box grater.

Step 3: Chop the Onions and Parsley

Thinly slice the green onions. Finely chop the parsley.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add all the vegetables to the bowl with the dressing and stir to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Julienne with Precision: Use a julienne peeler or food processor for even, beautiful carrot strips.
Taste the Vinaigrette: Adjust the sweetness and acidity to your liking.
Don’t Overdress: Add the dressing gradually to avoid a soggy salad.
If you do not have white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar works great as well.

How to Serve Simple Carrot Salad

This salad is perfect for any occasion!

Lunchtime Sidekick: Pairs beautifully with sandwiches or wraps.
Dinner Delight: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
Potluck Hero: A crowd-pleasing side that’s easy to transport.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Make Ahead

You can julienne the carrots and prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine just before serving.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold, no reheating needed!

FAQs

1. Can I use baby carrots?

Yes, but you’ll need to slice them into thin strips.

2. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar work well as substitutes.

3. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Red cabbage, bell peppers, or radishes would be delicious additions.

4. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, use maple syrup instead of sugar.

Go ahead, make this Simple Carrot Salad and prepare to be amazed! It’s a fresh, flavorful, and utterly delicious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every crisp, tangy bite!