Raw Carrot Salad with Lime, Cilantro, and Sesame Recipe

Introduction

This Raw Carrot Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that’s easy to prepare and full of bright flavors. Thinly sliced carrots are tossed in a zesty dressing with hints of lime, coriander, and a touch of sweetness. It’s perfect as a light side or a healthy snack.

Ingredients

• 3 large carrots, peeled and ends trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon agave syrup or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
• Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro or mint

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut the carrots into 3-4 inch pieces (or your preferred length). Using a mandoline, slice the carrot pieces lengthwise as thinly as possible. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lime juice, apple cider vinegar, agave syrup, ground coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), and kosher salt until well combined.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced carrots, chopped parsley, and sesame seeds to the bowl. Toss thoroughly to ensure the carrots are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Step 4: Serve immediately for a crisp texture, or let it sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the carrots to soften slightly and flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• Use a vegetable peeler if you don’t have a mandoline; slicing thinly is key to texture.
• Add chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh herbal note.
• Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat or omit for a milder salad.
• Try toasted sesame seeds for a deeper, nuttier flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The carrots will soften over time but remain tasty. For best texture, enjoy within the first couple of days. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad without a mandoline?

Yes, you can use a sharp knife or vegetable peeler to slice the carrots thinly. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Absolutely. All the ingredients are plant-based, making this salad a perfect vegan option.

Raw Carrot Salad with Lime, Cilantro, and Sesame Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 85 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing raw carrot salad featuring thinly sliced carrots tossed in a zesty lime and apple cider vinegar dressing with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and sesame seeds. This easy no-cook salad is perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack, offering a delightful balance of sweetness, tang, and a subtle hint of heat.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 3 large carrots, peeled and ends trimmed
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
• Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro or mint

Dressing Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon agave syrup (or substitute with maple syrup)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

1. Prep the Carrots: Cut the peeled carrots into 3-4 inch pieces or any preferred length. Using a mandoline slicer, slice the carrot pieces lengthwise into very thin strips to create a delicate texture. Set aside.
2. Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lime juice, apple cider vinegar, agave syrup, ground coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), and kosher salt until the dressing is well combined and smooth.
3. Mix: Add the thinly sliced carrots to the bowl with the dressing along with chopped parsley and sesame seeds. Toss thoroughly to ensure every carrot slice is coated evenly with the flavorful dressing.
4. Serve & Store: Enjoy the salad immediately for a crisp texture, or allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes if you prefer the carrots to soften slightly and absorb more flavors. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 5 days.

Notes

• For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the sesame seeds before adding.
• The salad can be customized with fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint for an extra burst of freshness.
• The optional cayenne pepper adds a gentle heat but can be omitted for a milder dish.
• Use a mandoline carefully to avoid injury while thinly slicing the carrots.
• This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated up to 5 days.

Keywords: raw carrot salad, carrot salad recipe, vegan salad, healthy side dish, no-cook salad, easy salad recipe, gluten free salad, vegan carrot salad