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Fresh Carrot Salad with Citrus Miso Dressing

carrot salad with citrus miso dressing - featured image

A quick and easy fresh carrot salad with a bright, tangy citrus miso dressing. This pantry-friendly recipe comes together in 15 minutes and is perfect for meal prep or as a crowd-pleasing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound carrots (about 6 medium), peeled and grated
  • 4 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons white miso paste
  • 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (unseasoned)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado or grapeseed)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Wash and peel the carrots. Grate using the large holes of a box grater or the shredding disk of a food processor. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  2. If sesame seeds are not already toasted, heat a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add the seeds and cook, shaking frequently, for about 2 minutes until fragrant and light golden brown. Pour onto a plate to cool.
  3. In a small bowl or mason jar, combine white miso paste, fresh orange juice, fresh lime juice, grated ginger, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and honey or maple syrup. Whisk or shake until the miso paste is fully dissolved.
  4. While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the neutral oil. If using a jar, seal and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is creamy and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust with more lime juice or honey as needed.
  5. Add the sliced green onions and chopped cilantro to the bowl with the shredded carrots. Pour about three-quarters of the dressing over the top. Toss with hands or forks until every strand of carrot is coated.
  6. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top. Drizzle remaining dressing if desired. Serve immediately for crunchiest texture, or let rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes for a softer, more marinated salad.

Notes

For best texture, grate carrots against the grain. Let miso and citrus juice come to room temperature before making dressing for better emulsification. Fresh citrus juice is essential; do not use bottled. The salad tastes even better after resting for an hour. Store dressing separately if making ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: carrot salad, miso dressing, citrus dressing, quick salad, healthy side dish, gluten-free, vegan option