Mediterranean Carrot Salad: Fresh, Flavorful & Fun to Make
Discover the Mediterranean Carrot Salad: Fresh, Flavorful & Fun to Make, a vibrant dish that combines fresh veggies and protein-packed lentils for a nutritious meal. Bursting with flavors from zesty lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and spices, this salad is perfect for any occasion—whether you need a healthy side dish for dinner or a light lunch at work. With its easy preparation and colorful presentation, this salad brings Mediterranean flair to your table while satisfying your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium carrots
- 1 cup green lentils
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or harissa
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse green lentils under cold water. Combine with 3 cups of water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain if necessary.
- While lentils cook, peel and cut carrots into thin matchsticks or grate them. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the carrots along with ground cumin, paprika, chili flakes (or harissa), salt, and pepper. Cook until tender yet crisp (about 5-7 minutes).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, sautéed carrots, toasted almonds, and fresh mint leaves. Drizzle with lemon juice and gently toss.
- Serve immediately as a side dish or refrigerate for a refreshing lunch option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg