Name: Raw Carrot Salad with Sesame and Lime Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 3 large carrots; 1/2 tbsp sesame oil or extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey; Juice of 1/2 lime; Sesame seeds, to taste; Green onion, chopped, to taste

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This refreshing raw carrot salad brings together crisp carrot ribbons dressed in a tangy, sweet, and savory dressing. It’s a simple, healthy side that’s perfect for a quick snack or to complement any meal.

A white plate filled with thin, wide, bright orange carrot ribbons, loosely folded and piled to cover the entire plate surface. The carrot ribbons have a slightly glossy texture and are sprinkled with small light brown sesame seeds. Scattered among the carrot ribbons are small rings of fresh green onion, adding a pop of green color. Around the plate on a white marbled surface, there are halves of a lime, a small white bowl of sesame seeds, a white bowl of chopped green onions, and a small white bowl of dark soy sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 large carrots
1/2 tbsp sesame oil, or extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1/2 lime, juiced
Sesame seeds, for topping
Green onion, chopped, for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Wash and peel the raw carrots. Then peel the carrots further to create thin carrot ribbons.
Step 2: Place the carrot ribbons in a large bowl and add the sesame oil (or olive oil), rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice. Mix thoroughly to combine.
Step 3: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top of the salad.
Step 4: Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use a vegetable peeler or mandoline to create even, thin carrot ribbons for the best texture.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the dressing.
Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave for a vegan option.
Try adding chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for extra freshness.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The carrots will soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within a day for maximum crunch. If chilled, allow it to come to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving, then toss gently to redistribute the dressing.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of thin, bright orange carrot ribbons, sprinkled with small white sesame seeds and chopped green scallions. The carrot ribbons are soft and curly, overlapping each other to make a textured bed. A silver fork lifts a few carrot ribbons, with sesame seeds visible on them, adding detail and freshness. The background features a white marbled texture, creating a clean and simple look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other oils instead of sesame or olive oil?

Yes, you can use other neutral oils like avocado or sunflower oil, but sesame oil adds a distinct nutty flavor that complements the dish well.

Can this salad be made ahead of time?

It can be prepared a few hours in advance and refrigerated. For best texture, dress the carrots closer to serving time or add the dressing just before serving.