Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious side dish that will brighten up any meal? Look no further! This Copper Penny Carrot Salad is a vibrant and refreshing recipe that's surprisingly easy to make. It’s the perfect addition to your next barbecue, potluck, or even a simple weeknight dinner. The beautiful orange hue, reminiscent of shiny copper pennies, makes it as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate. This recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – simple ingredients transformed into a culinary delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and julienned (about 4 large carrots)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins (golden or dark)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Carrots: Peel and julienne the carrots using a vegetable peeler and a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for even, thin strips. If you don’t have a mandoline, simply use a sharp knife to create thin matchsticks.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the julienned carrots, red onion, raisins, and parsley.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness and tanginess according to your preference.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for a truly delicious salad; the flavors will deepen and the carrots will become more tender. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Copper Penny Carrot Salad:
- For extra sweetness: Add a diced apple or a few chopped dates to the salad.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for parties or busy weeknights.
- Presentation matters: Serve the salad in a beautiful bowl to enhance its visual appeal. You can also garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of toasted nuts.
Variations:
- Cranberry Carrot Salad: Replace the raisins with dried cranberries for a tart and festive twist.
- Citrus Carrot Salad: Add the zest and juice of one orange or lemon for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
- Spicy Carrot Salad: Include a chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
This Copper Penny Carrot Salad is a simple yet elegant side dish perfect for any occasion. It's a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal addition, and a delicious way to showcase the natural sweetness of carrots. Enjoy this easy recipe and the compliments that are sure to follow!