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Fresh Moroccan Carrot Ribbon Salad Recipe Easy Harissa Vinaigrette Dressing

moroccan carrot ribbon salad - featured image

A quick and vibrant Moroccan carrot ribbon salad with a smoky, spicy harissa vinaigrette that is fresh, bold, and fuss-free.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 medium carrots, peeled into ribbons
  • 1 tablespoon harissa paste
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Freshly squeezed juice from 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 small clove garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup toasted almonds, roughly chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Peel the carrots into ribbons using a vegetable peeler, rotating the carrot as you go. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon harissa paste, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice from one lemon (about 2 tablespoons), 1 teaspoon honey, and the finely minced garlic clove. Whisk vigorously until smooth and slightly emulsified. Add a teaspoon of water if too thick.
  3. Add the carrot ribbons to the bowl with the vinaigrette. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every ribbon with the dressing, about 2 minutes. Add a splash more olive oil if carrots look dry.
  4. Fold in the chopped fresh cilantro and toasted almonds. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Let the salad rest for 5 minutes at room temperature to let flavors meld.
  5. Give the salad one last gentle toss, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or chill briefly if desired.

Notes

If prepping ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to maintain crispness. Adjust harissa paste amount to control spice level. Toast almonds on a dry skillet for 3 minutes for extra crunch. Substitute almonds with toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for nut-free option. Garlic can be omitted or replaced with garlic powder for milder flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Moroccan carrot salad, carrot ribbon salad, harissa vinaigrette, easy salad, quick side dish, healthy salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad