Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with delight! This Shaved Carrot Salad with Pistachio and Pomegranate Vinaigrette is a Middle Eastern-inspired sensation that combines delicate carrot ribbons, crunchy pistachios, and burst-in-your-mouth pomegranate seeds. It's a vibrant, refreshing dish that looks as incredible as it tastes, promising to elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary in just 15 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large carrots, shaved
- 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Wash the carrots thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Peel the carrots using a vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin.
- Using the vegetable peeler, shave the carrots into thin ribbons. If you prefer, you can also use a mandoline for more uniform slices. Place the shaved carrots in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and pomegranate molasses. Whisk together until well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the shaved carrots in the mixing bowl. Toss gently to ensure all the carrot ribbons are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add the chopped pistachios and pomegranate seeds to the bowl. Toss again gently to mix the ingredients without breaking the delicate carrot ribbons.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This will enhance the taste of the vinaigrette on the carrots.
- Before serving, give the salad one last gentle toss. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the shaved carrot salad in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnishing with extra pomegranate seeds and pistachios for a beautiful presentation.
- Enjoy your refreshing Shaved Carrot Salad with Pistachio and Pomegranate Vinaigrette as a light appetizer or a vibrant side dish!
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm carrots for the best texture and flavor. Organic carrots tend to have a sweeter taste.
- When shaving carrots, use a sharp vegetable peeler or mandoline for uniform, thin ribbons. Work slowly to create delicate, elegant strips.
- Allow the salad to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the vinaigrette infuse the carrots with maximum flavor.
- For extra freshness, you can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or parsley just before serving.
- If pomegranate molasses is hard to find, you can substitute with a mix of honey and lemon juice for a similar tangy-sweet profile.
- Toast the pistachios lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add more depth to the salad.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
