🥕 Fresh & Crunchy Carrot Salad (Simple & Healthy)

This refreshing Carrot Salad is crisp, tangy, and naturally sweet—perfect as a side dish or light lunch. It features freshly grated carrots tossed in a simple lemon-honey vinaigrette with crunchy sunflower seeds, raisins, and fresh herbs. Naturally gluten-free and vegan, this salad fits beautifully into clean eating, diabetic-friendly, and heart-healthy diets.

Prep Time 10 mins

Total Time 10 mins

Cooking Method: No-Cook

Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-inspired

Courses: Lunch, Salad, Side dish

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 3

Estimated Cost: 3

Calories: 150 kcal

Best Season: Summer, Spring

Description

A vibrant mix of shredded carrots, raisins, seeds, and herbs tossed in a lemon-honey dressing. Light, crisp, and delicious—perfect for picnics, BBQs, or everyday meals.

Ingredients

Main ingredients:

3 medium carrots, peeled and grated
2 tbsp raisins or dried cranberries
1 tbsp sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or mint
Pinch of salt and black pepper

For the Dressing:

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

1
1. Grate the Carrots: Peel and grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor. Place into a mixing bowl.
2
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard (if using). Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
3
3. Assemble the Salad: Add raisins, seeds, and chopped herbs to the bowl of grated carrots. Pour the dressing over and toss well to combine.
4
4. Rest (Optional): Let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld, or chill slightly before serving.
5
5. Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 3

Amount Per Serving
Calories 150kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 9g14%
Saturated Fat 1g5%
Sodium 70mg3%
Potassium 320mg10%
Total Carbohydrate 16g6%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Sugars 9g
Protein 2g4%

Vitamin A 10200 IU
Vitamin C 6 mg
Calcium 40 mg
Iron 1 mg
Folate 20 mcg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Add crunch: Include shredded red cabbage, sliced apple, or chopped celery.
Make it nutty: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or slivered almonds (omit if nut-free).
Dressing variation: Use apple cider vinegar instead of lemon for a tangier twist.

Keywords: carrot salad, healthy salad, raw salad, gluten-free, vegan, diabetic-friendly salad, fresh vegetable salad