Raw Carrot Salad Recipe (with a Simple Dressing)

This Raw Carrot Salad Recipe is a tasty twist on the TikTok sensation.

It features sweet carrots, apples, walnuts, and fresh herbs, all dressed in apple cider vinegar and olive oil. Sweet, tangy, and oh-so-crunchy, it’s a guaranteed hit at any outdoor gathering!

If there’s one raw veggie I’m always excited to incorporate into my recipes, from salads to soups and side dishes, it’s carrots! Today, however, is about celebrating the humble carrot as the starring ingredient in this delicious raw carrot salad recipe.

While reminiscent of my French carrot salad, this dish takes inspiration from the viral TikTok trend.

Picture a medley of shredded carrots, crisp apples, and crunchy walnuts, all drizzled in a simple apple cider vinegar dressing. It’s an irresistible explosion of flavor and texture you won’t want to miss!

Considering the potential benefits, each bite of this delicious salad nourishes your body from the inside out. So what are you waiting for? Whether planning a backyard BBQ, packing a picnic basket, or prepping meals for the week ahead, this shredded carrot salad is a must-try dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This carrot salad with apple cider vinegar is a game-changer, and here’s why:

• Ease and simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple dressing, this recipe is a breeze to whip up in minutes.
• Customizable. This salad is easily modified to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Serving options. Perfect for outdoor dining events or as a vibrant addition to your weekday vegetable intake.
• Sweet, savory, tangy, and crunchy! In short, this salad hits the spot!

Ingredient Notes

Gather these ingredients and prepare for a raw carrot salad bursting with flavor and nutrition!

Here is a brief overview of the ingredients:

• Carrots – The star of the show! Opt for firm, fresh, vibrant orange carrots, preferably organic, for the best flavor and texture.
• Fresh parsley – For a pop of green freshness and a subtle herbaceous flavor.
• Apple – Juicy apples add a refreshing sweetness and crisp bite. Choose your favorite variety, from sweet to slightly tart.
• Lemon juice – It helps prevent the apples from browning.
• Walnuts – They add a nutritional boost while imparting a delightful contrast in texture.
• Olive oil – Select high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Its fruity and slightly peppery notes complement the other ingredients beautifully without overpowering them.
• Apple cider vinegar – lt gives the salad a tangy, slightly sweet, and acidic dimension. It also has health benefits, including aiding digestion and supporting gut health.
• Salt – Brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and apples while balancing the acidity of the dressing.

How to Make Raw Carrot Salad

Here’s how to transform carrots into a crowd-pleasing salad:

Step 1. Shred the carrots.

Peel the carrots. Or, rinse them under cool running water, using a vegetable brush to scrub gently. Trim off both ends of each carrot, then shred them using a food processor fitted with a grating disk, box grater, mandoline slicer, or spiralizer.

Step 2. Prep the remaining produce.

Finely chop the parsley. Core and small dice the apple, then toss the pieces in lemon juice. Chop the walnuts, and add everything to a salad bowl.

Step 3. Toss the salad in the dressing.

Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the top, season with a pinch of salt, and toss to combine.

Step 4. Chill before serving.

Place the bowl in the fridge to chill for about 30 minutes. Then, give it a quick stir, and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

These expert tips ensure the best salad with raw carrots every time:

• Peeling is optional. You can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients if the carrots are fresh and thoroughly washed. Otherwise, removing the outer layer with a vegetable peeler is best.
• Toast the walnuts. For added depth of flavor, spread the walnuts out on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated oven or dry skillet until fragrant and lightly golden before adding them to the dish.
• Dress lightly. To avoid a soggy shredded carrot salad, you want it to be lightly coated and not drenched in dressing. Start with a small amount of oil and vinegar and gradually add more as needed.
• Let it chill. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the final taste of the dish.

Variations

Looking to put your spin on this carrot salad recipe? Get creative with these ideas:

• Switch up the nuts. Try substituting walnuts with almonds, pecans, pistachios, or pine nuts. For a nut-free version, try pepitas or sunflower seeds.
• Add a touch of sweetness. Drizzle the salad with honey or maple syrup to enhance its natural sweetness.
• Add a second veggie. Elevate the nutritional value and colorful presentation by adding another shredded raw vegetable, such as zucchini, cabbage, or beetroot.
• Flavorful add-ins. Add depth and complexity with flavor-enhancing ingredients like golden raisins, dried cranberries, grated ginger, or minced garlic.
• Make it spicy. Consider sprinkling in crushed red pepper flakes, minced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Wondering when to eat with this raw carrot salad? Check out these meal ideas:

• Pair with proteins. Serve as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, roasted salmon, or marinated tofu.
• Use as a condiment. Get creative and use it as a crunchy, tangy-sweet topping for sandwiches, wraps, burgers, tacos, etc.
• Add to grain or salad bowls. Pair with cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice, leafy greens, protein, and your favorite toppings for a balanced meal.

Storing

You can store leftover raw carrot salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. However, for optimal freshness, consume it within the first day or two. Do not freeze.

More Carrot Recipes

If you have some carrots left after making this salad, you might also like these easy recipes:

• Creamy Mashed Carrots
• Roasted Carrots and Onions
• Carrot and Swede Mash
• Cauliflower and Carrot Soup
• Savory Carrot Muffins
• Peas and Carrots