Middle Eastern Carrot Salad with Orange Blossom Water and Mint Recipe
Introduction
This vibrant Middle Eastern carrot salad is a refreshing and aromatic side dish that brightens any meal. Combining shredded carrots with fragrant spices and fresh mint, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
- ½ tsp orange blossom water
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 500g carrots, shredded or grated
- Large handful small mint leaves
Instructions
- Step 1: In a jar, combine the orange blossom water, ground cumin, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Screw on the lid tightly and shake well until the dressing is thoroughly mixed.
- Step 2: Place the shredded carrots and mint leaves into a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad, season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Tips & Variations
- For extra texture, add chopped toasted almonds or pistachios just before serving.
- Substitute fresh parsley for mint if preferred, or use a mix of both herbs.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a mezze spread.
Storage
Store the carrot salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The carrots may release some liquid over time; give the salad a good toss before serving. It’s best enjoyed fresh and does not require reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated and toss again before serving to refresh the flavors.
What if I don’t have orange blossom water?
If you don’t have orange blossom water, you can omit it or replace it with a small splash of orange juice for a similar citrusy note, though the flavor will be less floral.
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Middle Eastern Carrot Salad with Orange Blossom Water and Mint Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and aromatic Middle Eastern carrot salad featuring shredded carrots tossed with a zesty dressing infused with orange blossom water, ground cumin, lemon juice, and olive oil, garnished with fresh mint leaves.
Ingredients
Dressing
- ½ tsp orange blossom water
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Salad
- 500g carrots, shredded or grated
- Large handful small fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a jar with a lid, combine the orange blossom water, ground cumin, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Screw on the lid tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined into a smooth dressing.
- Combine salad ingredients: Place the shredded or grated carrots and the fresh mint leaves into a large mixing bowl.
- Toss the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the carrots and mint. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed, then toss everything thoroughly to ensure the carrots are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately, or chill for a short time to enhance the flavors before serving.
Notes
- Orange blossom water adds a distinctive floral aroma and can be adjusted to taste.
- Use fresh mint leaves for the best flavor and aroma.
- This salad can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 1 day.
- Grating the carrots finely helps the dressing coat the salad more evenly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keywords: Middle Eastern carrot salad, carrot salad with orange blossom water, fresh carrot salad, mint carrot salad, healthy carrot salad
