This Moroccan Carrot Salad with Orange and Cinnamon is a vibrant and refreshing salad, combining the sweetness of carrots and oranges with the warm, aromatic flavors of cinnamon. It’s a light, healthy dish with a perfect balance of citrusy, spicy, and earthy flavors, often served as a side or appetizer in Moroccan cuisine.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- Carrots: 4 medium, peeled and grated
- Oranges: 2, peeled and segmented
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Honey: 1 tbsp (optional, for added sweetness)
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
- Cumin: ½ tsp (optional, for a deeper flavor)
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
- Fresh cilantro: 2 tbsp, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt: A pinch, to taste
- Pepper: A pinch, to taste
- Toasted almonds: ¼ cup, slivered (optional, for crunch)
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots and Oranges:
- Grate the carrots using a box grater or a food processor.
- Peel and segment the oranges, ensuring you remove all the white pith and seeds. Cut the segments into smaller pieces if desired.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey (if using), ground cinnamon, cumin (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots and orange segments.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring the carrots and oranges are well coated.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the salad with fresh cilantro and toasted almonds (if using) for added texture and flavor.
Tips for the Best Moroccan Carrot Salad:
- Chill the salad: For enhanced flavor, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of orange blossom water for an extra Moroccan flair.
- Make it a meal: You can add chickpeas or roasted chicken for a more filling version of this salad.
This Moroccan Carrot Salad with Orange and Cinnamon is a wonderfully refreshing and aromatic dish, perfect as a side to grilled meats or a light, healthy lunch. It’s a beautiful way to enjoy the bright flavors of Morocco in a simple salad!
