What is a carrot ribbon salad made of?

Carrot ribbon salad is made from thin strips of raw carrots (created using a peeler or mandoline), tossed with a light dressing often citrus-based and garnished with herbs like parsley or mint. Optional add-ins include nuts, seeds, goat cheese, raisins, or fennel for extra flavor and crunch.

How do you make carrot ribbons without a spiralizer?

To make carrot ribbons without a spiralizer, use a vegetable peeler to shave long, thin strips along the length of the carrot. A mandoline slicer also works well. For those comfortable with knife skills, a sharp chef’s knife can be used to carefully slice thin ribbons on an angle.

Can you make carrot ribbon salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the carrot ribbons 1–2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container with a slightly damp paper towel. To avoid sogginess, don’t add dressing until just before serving. Store dressing separately and mix when ready to eat.

What dressing goes best with carrot ribbon salad?

Carrots pair best with light, acidic dressings like lemon vinaigrette, orange-ginger sauce, or a creamy tahini-lemon blend. These dressings enhance the natural sweetness of the carrots without overpowering them.

Are carrot ribbons better raw or cooked in salads?

Raw carrot ribbons are preferred for most salads because they’re crisp, colorful, and packed with nutrients. However, if a softer texture is desired, blanching the ribbons for 15–30 seconds in boiling water, then shocking them in ice water, can soften them slightly while keeping their brightness.

How do you keep carrot ribbons from getting soggy?

To keep ribbons crisp: Use fresh, firm carrots Store dry and undressed in a container with a paper towel Dress the salad just before serving Soak ribbons in ice water for 10 minutes for extra crunch before serving

Carrot Ribbon Salad – The Best 6 Tips You Need Now

Name: Carrot Ribbon Salad – A Fresh and Colorful Twist for Every Table
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large fresh carrots; 2 tbsp lemon or orange juice; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or dill); Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 2 tbsp toasted nuts; Optional: 2 tbsp crumbled goat cheese; Optional: 2 tbsp raisins

Description

Light, crisp, and eye-catching, this Carrot Ribbon Salad is a crunchy, tangy, and refreshing twist perfect for lunch, BBQs, or a side that steals the spotlight.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large fresh carrots
2 tbsp lemon or orange juice
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or dill)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 2 tbsp toasted nuts
Optional: 2 tbsp crumbled goat cheese
Optional: 2 tbsp raisins

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Instructions

Use a Y-peeler, mandoline slicer, or sharp knife to create long carrot ribbons.
Place ribbons in a bowl of ice water for 10 minutes to enhance crispness.
In a separate jar, shake together lemon/orange juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Drain carrot ribbons and pat dry.
Toss carrots with chopped herbs and prepared dressing.
Add optional toppings like nuts, goat cheese, or raisins before serving.
Serve immediately or store dressing separately if prepping ahead.

Notes

Use firm, long carrots for best ribbons. Store undressed ribbons in a container with a damp paper towel to keep them fresh up to 2 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 130
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg