Name: Incredible Simple French Carrot Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 medium carrots, peeled; 2 green onion stems, finely sliced on the diagonal; 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped (optional); 1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Introduction

This incredible, simple French carrot salad is a fresh and vibrant side dish that comes together in minutes. With a bright lemon and Dijon dressing, it’s a perfect way to enjoy crisp, shredded carrots in a light and flavorful way.

A close-up of a fork holding a mix of shredded orange carrots and thin green herb strips with black pepper sprinkled, lifting from a white bowl filled with the same bright orange shredded carrot salad mixed with green herbs, all placed on a white marbled surface. The texture of the carrot is soft with a slight shine, and the herb leaves add a fresh touch. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 medium carrots, peeled
2 green onion stems, finely sliced on the diagonal

1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped (optional)
1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp honey
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Grate the carrots using a standard box grater or the shredder attachment of a food processor. Aim for strands about 4cm (1.5 inches) long for the best texture.
Step 2: Place the grated carrots in a bowl and add the sliced green onions and chopped parsley if using.
Step 3: In a jar or small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Shake or whisk well to make the dressing.

Step 4: Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all the ingredients.
Step 5: Serve immediately or let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

For a nutty crunch, add toasted almonds or walnuts just before serving.

Replace parsley with fresh cilantro for a different herbal note.
If you prefer a sweeter salad, increase honey slightly or add a pinch of sugar.
Use shaved raw fennel instead of green onions for a more aromatic salad.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The carrots will soften over time as they absorb the dressing. For best freshness and crunch, enjoy soon after preparing. If stored, stir well before serving and add extra lemon juice or olive oil if needed.

How to Serve

A dish in a light brown bowl shows a mix of thinly shredded orange carrots and sliced green herbs or scallions, evenly combined to create a bright, fresh look. The carrot strands form the main layer, with scattered green pieces adding contrast on top and throughout. Two silver spoons rest in the bowl, one leaning inside on the left side and the other set on the right, with the bowl placed on a soft gray cloth and a white marbled surface in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this carrot salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. The flavors develop well, but the carrots may soften slightly, so it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard or a small amount of whole grain mustard. Both will work, though the flavor may be milder or less tangy.