Zesty Carrot & Golden Raisin Salad with Mint and Cashews
This refreshing salad features vibrant shredded carrots paired with plump golden raisins for a touch of sweetness. Enhanced with the crunch of cashews and the refreshing notes of mint, this dish is a delightful accompaniment to any meal, especially aromatic fish curries. The zesty dressing made of rice wine vinegar, honey, and a hint of garlic and ginger ties all the flavors together beautifully. This salad can be made ahead of time and is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a healthy side dish at home. Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures with every bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Carrots
2 (large, peeled and shredded)
Golden raisins
1/4 cup
Green onions
2 (sliced)
Cashews
2 tablespoons (roughly chopped)
Rice wine vinegar
2 tablespoons
Runny honey
2 tablespoons
Crushed garlic
1 teaspoon
Fresh ginger
1 teaspoon (grated)
Dried mint
1 teaspoon
Cumin seeds
1 teaspoon
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, golden raisins, sliced green onions, and chopped cashews. Gently mix to distribute the ingredients evenly.
2
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the rice wine vinegar, runny honey, crushed garlic, grated ginger, dried mint, cumin seeds, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
3
Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture, tossing everything together until well coated.
4
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5
Serve chilled and enjoy as a side dish or a light meal on its own!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Carrot & Golden Raisin Salad?
It is a refreshing and vibrant salad made with shredded carrots, sweet golden raisins, crunchy cashews, and a zesty ginger-mint dressing.
What are the main ingredients for this carrot salad?
The main ingredients include carrots, golden raisins, green onions, cashews, rice wine vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, dried mint, and cumin seeds.
How should the carrots be prepared?
You should use two large carrots that are peeled and then shredded.
Can I use regular raisins instead of golden raisins?
Yes, you can use regular raisins, though golden raisins are preferred for their specific sweetness and plump texture in this recipe.
What kind of nuts are used in this recipe?
This recipe calls for two tablespoons of roughly chopped cashews for added crunch.
Is this salad recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly.
How do I make the dressing for the salad?
Whisk together rice wine vinegar, runny honey, crushed garlic, grated ginger, dried mint, cumin seeds, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
What type of vinegar is best for this salad?
Rice wine vinegar is recommended for its mild and slightly sweet flavor profile.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the runny honey with agave nectar or maple syrup.
Does this salad need to be refrigerated?
Yes, it is recommended to refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
What does this salad pair well with?
It is an excellent accompaniment to aromatic fish curries, barbecued meats, or as a healthy side for any meal.
Is this salad suitable for picnics?
Yes, because it is served chilled and holds up well, it is perfect for picnics and outdoor gatherings.
Can I prepare this carrot salad in advance?
Yes, preparing it ahead of time actually improves the flavor as the dressing marinates the carrots and raisins.
How long will this salad stay fresh in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, it will remain fresh and delicious for 2 to 3 days.
Can I substitute the cashews with other nuts?
Absolutely; sliced almonds or chopped walnuts would also provide a great texture if you do not have cashews.
What provides the zesty flavor in this dish?
The combination of fresh grated ginger, garlic, and rice wine vinegar provides the signature zesty kick.
Is there any cooking involved in this recipe?
No, this is a raw salad recipe that requires no cooking, only assembly and chilling.
How many carrots do I need?
The recipe requires two large carrots.
Can I use fresh mint instead of dried mint?
Yes, you can use finely chopped fresh mint; use about a tablespoon of fresh mint to replace one teaspoon of dried mint.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the salad?
Yes, you can increase or decrease the amount of honey to suit your personal taste preference.
What is the purpose of the cumin seeds?
Cumin seeds add an earthy, aromatic depth that complements the sweetness of the raisins and carrots.
Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Yes, shredded cabbage or thinly sliced bell peppers would be excellent additions.
How should I serve this salad?
Serve it chilled in a large bowl, either as a side dish or as a light, healthy meal on its own.
Can I use ground cumin instead of cumin seeds?
Yes, if you do not have seeds, use a half-teaspoon of ground cumin as a substitute.
What if I am allergic to nuts?
If you have a nut allergy, you can omit the cashews or replace them with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
How do I prepare the ginger?
The ginger should be peeled and then finely grated to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the dressing.
Is this recipe low fat?
Yes, the salad is low in fat, with the primary source of fat being the heart-healthy cashews.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes, this recipe is very easy to scale up by simply doubling all the ingredient quantities.
Is the garlic flavor very strong?
The one teaspoon of crushed garlic provides a nice savory note without being overpowering when mixed with the honey and vinegar.