Moroccan Carrot and Chickpea Salad Recipe
A vibrant and healthy Moroccan Carrot and Chickpea Salad combining grated carrots, chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a zesty, spiced lemon dressing. This refreshing salad is perfect as a light side dish or a nutritious snack, featuring a blend of flavors and textures with optional sweet raisins or dried cranberries for added contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Moroccan
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 4 medium carrots (250g/1 cup), peeled and grated
- 1 can (400g/1.5 cups) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Grate the carrots: Use a grater or food processor to finely grate the peeled carrots until you have about 1 cup.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the grated carrots, drained and rinsed chickpeas, chopped cilantro, and chopped parsley. Toss them together gently.
- Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful dressing.
- Add the dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the carrot and chickpea mixture. Toss everything gently to make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add dried fruit (optional): If you like a touch of sweetness, add the raisins or dried cranberries and toss gently again.
- Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled for the best taste.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to control the level of heat or omit it if you prefer a milder salad.
- For extra crunch, you can add slivered almonds or toasted pine nuts.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated, making it convenient for meal prep or gatherings.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor in the dressing.
- Optional dried fruit adds sweetness and texture but can be omitted for a purely savory version.
Keywords: Moroccan salad, carrot salad, chickpea salad, vegan salad, healthy salad, easy salad recipe, Mediterranean salad
