Citrus Carrot Ribbon Salad (Print Version)

Fresh carrot ribbons with citrus, herbs, and honey for a light, flavorful side or starter.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 large carrots, peeled
02 - 1 small cucumber, seeds removed

→ Citrus

03 - 1 lemon, zest and juice
04 - 1 orange, zest and juice

→ Fresh Herbs

05 - 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

→ Dressing

07 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
08 - 1 teaspoon honey
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

10 - 2 tablespoons roasted pistachios or almonds, chopped (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Use a vegetable peeler to shave the carrots and cucumber into long, thin ribbons. Place them in a large salad bowl.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, orange juice, lemon and orange zest, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
03 - Pour the dressing over the carrot and cucumber ribbons. Add the chopped mint and parsley. Toss gently to coat all the vegetables evenly.
04 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
05 - Transfer to a serving platter or individual plates. Sprinkle with chopped nuts if using. Serve immediately.

# Helpful Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in 15 minutes but tastes like you spent the afternoon on it.
  • The citrus zest adds brightness that makes every bite feel lighter and more alive.
  • You can make it ahead and it actually improves as the ribbons soften slightly and soak up the dressing.
02 -
  • If you let the salad sit too long before serving, the ribbons will soften—which some people prefer, but it loses that signature delicate crunch.
  • Zest your citrus over the bowl so you don't lose any oils, and taste the zest before adding the juice so you know what you're working with.
03 -
  • Make the dressing the night before and let the zests infuse the oil—it deepens the flavor without any extra effort.
  • If your carrots are stored in plastic wrap in the fridge, unwrap them and let them sit for an hour first—they'll be crisper and ribbon more cleanly.
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