Description
Discover the vibrant Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad (Vegan), a delightful blend of colorful vegetables, hearty lentils, and fragrant herbs. This refreshing salad is perfect for any occasion, whether as a side dish at gatherings or as a light meal on its own. With its warm spices like cumin and cinnamon, it offers an inviting flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. High in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this nutritious dish is not only quick to prepare but also great for meal prep, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over time. Enjoy this wholesome salad paired with warm pita bread and hummus for a satisfying and balanced meal.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked French green lentils (from 1 cup dry lentils)
- 4 cups peeled and grated carrots (from 8 medium carrots, OR use 2 cups grated carrots and 2 cups shredded kale)
- 3 celery ribs, diced
- 1/2 a medium red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, pepitas, or sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, plus more to taste
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 3/4 tsp fine sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp pure maple syrup
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, grated carrots, diced celery, chopped red onion, mint leaves, raisins or currants, nuts/seeds, and kale (if using).
- In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, smoked paprika, chili flakes (if using), salt, black pepper to taste, dijon mustard, maple syrup, and minced garlic.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until well coated.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving for enhanced flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg