Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad Vegan
A Taste of the Souks (Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad)
Welcome to a culinary adventure that whisks you straight to the vibrant markets of Morocco! This Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad is a festival of color and flavor, bursting with earthy lentils, sweet carrots, and a zesty dressing that dances on your palate. With every bite, you’ll savor the warmth of spices, the freshness of herbs, and the delightful sweetness of raisins. Grab your apron and get ready to create a dish that’s not just food—it’s a celebration!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad isn’t your average salad. It’s an explosion of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for this dish:
– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a taste sensation that will make your taste buds sing!
– Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a lunch party or a cozy dinner, this salad will have your guests raving.
– Flexible & Fast: With minimal prep and a variety of ingredient options, it’s super adaptable to what you have on hand.
– Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for meal prep! You can whip this up in advance and let the flavors mingle in the fridge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather your ingredients for a salad that’s as nutritious as it is delicious! Each component plays a role in achieving that perfect Moroccan vibe. Get excited about the pop of fresh mint and the crunch of toasted nuts—absolute flavor game-changers!
– 3 cups cooked French green lentils (from 1 cup dry lentils)*
– 4 cups peeled and grated carrots (from 8 medium carrots, OR use 2 cups grated carrots and 2 cups shredded kale)
– 3 celery ribs, diced
– 1/2 a medium red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped*
– 1/2 cup raisins or currants
– 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, pepitas, or sunflower seeds****
– 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced (optional, but highly recommended for a salty punch)
– A large handful of chopped kale (optional)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, plus more to taste
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
– 3/4 tsp fine sea salt
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 1 tsp dijon mustard
– 1 tsp pure maple syrup
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*
Variations
The beauty of this Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad lies in its versatility! Feel free to make it your own with these creative variations:
– Go Gluten-Free: This salad is already gluten-free but make sure to check your balsamic vinegar and mustard for any hidden gluten.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some chickpeas or quinoa for an even heartier salad.
– Make it Spicier: If you like a kick, add more chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with a tahini-based dressing for a creamy twist.
– Colorful Additions: Add roasted bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad (Vegan)
Ready to create this masterpiece? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making your Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad!
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, grated carrots, diced celery, finely chopped red onion, fresh mint, raisins (or currants), your choice of nuts or seeds, sliced olives, and kale if you’re using it. Stir gently to mix all those gorgeous ingredients together.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, ground turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, smoked paprika, chili flakes (if using), sea salt, black pepper, dijon mustard, maple syrup, and minced garlic. Shake it up or whisk until all the ingredients are well-combined and fragrant.
Step 3: Dress It Up
Pour the zesty dressing over your vibrant salad and toss it all together until every ingredient is beautifully coated. Give it a taste and feel free to add more lemon juice to elevate those flavors!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Your Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad is ready! Serve it alongside pita and hummus for a delightful lunch or light dinner. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container—just remember to add a little more lemon juice before enjoying them again to refresh the flavors.
Pro Tips for Making Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad (Vegan)
To help you achieve salad perfection, here are some pro tips:
– Cook Lentils Perfectly: Rinse and cook lentils until just tender—overcooking will make them mushy. Aim for a texture that holds up in the salad.
– Fresh is Best: Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant flavor, and make sure your veggies are crisp and colorful.
– Adjust the Seasoning: Taste as you go! Don’t be shy about tweaking the spices or acidity to suit your palate.
– Let It Marinate: For the best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to mingle.
How to Serve Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad (Vegan)
Garnishes
Elevate your salad with some beautiful garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh mint, a drizzle of balsamic reduction, or a handful of toasted nuts for that extra crunch!
Side Dishes
Pair this salad with a warm, fluffy pita bread and a side of creamy hummus for a delightful Mediterranean meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it up in individual cups for a fun appetizer or on a large platter for a beautiful center piece at your next gathering. For lunchboxes, layer it with pita chips for a delicious, portable meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s great for meal prep!
Freezing
This salad does not freeze well due to the fresh vegetables. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold. However, if you prefer it warm, gently reheat the lentils before tossing them with the fresh ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of lentil?
Yes! You can use brown or green lentils, but avoid red lentils as they tend to become mushy.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe is not spicy, but you can easily add chili flakes to suit your heat preference.
How do I make this gluten-free?
All ingredients listed are gluten-free, but be sure to check your balsamic vinegar and mustard for any hidden gluten.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Just remember to add a splash of lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors.
Final Thoughts
With its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and a symphony of flavors, this Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad is sure to be a hit at your table! Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or serving it as a stunning side dish, it’s a recipe that embodies the joy of good food. Get ready to impress and dig into this irresistible dish—you’ve got this! Happy cooking!
