Name: Incredible Simple French Carrot Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 medium carrots, peeled; 2 green onion stems, finely sliced on the diagonal; 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped (optional); 1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This incredible, simple French carrot salad is a fresh and vibrant side dish that’s perfect anytime. With just a few ingredients, it delivers bright flavors and a delightful crunch.

A close-up view shows a fork lifting a mix of thin orange shredded carrots and thin green herb pieces from a textured white bowl. The carrot strands are soft and glossy, layered with small dark green herb bits scattered unevenly throughout. The background is a smooth white marbled texture, which highlights the bright warm colors of the shredded carrots and herbs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 medium carrots, peeled
2 green onion stems, finely sliced on the diagonal
1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped (optional)
1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Grate the carrots using a standard box grater or the shredder attachment of a food processor. Aim for strands about 4 cm (1.5 inches) long for the best texture.
Step 2: Place the grated carrots in a bowl along with the sliced green onions and chopped parsley, if using.
Step 3: Combine the Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a jar. Shake well to mix the dressing.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Tips & Variations

For a crunchier texture, add some toasted walnuts or slivered almonds to the salad.
Try substituting lemon juice with white wine vinegar for a slightly different tang.
If you prefer a bit more sweetness, increase the honey by a teaspoon or two.
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give the salad a subtle spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftover carrot salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing may cause the carrots to soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If refrigerated, give the salad a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

How to Serve

A bowl filled with shredded orange carrots mixed with thin slices of green vegetables, likely scallions, creating a vibrant contrast of colors. The carrots and greens make one visible layer, with a fresh and slightly moist texture. The bowl holding the salad is a natural light gray color, sitting on a white marbled surface, with two silver forks placed inside, one on each side of the pile of vegetables. The setting is simple and clean, focusing on the fresh colors of the food. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to maintain the crispness of the carrots.

What can I serve this salad with?

This carrot salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a fresh side for any Mediterranean-inspired meal.