Moroccan-Inspired Carrot Salad With Feta & Pistachios

Summer is here and you can’t beat a good salad on a hot summers day. This vegetarian and gluten-free recipe combines the vibrant flavours of carrot ribbons, feta cheese, and pistachios, all tossed together in a delicious dressing with hints of orange blossom water, honey, and spices. It’s a refreshing and satisfying salad that will surely impress your taste buds.

The carrots are sliced into thin strips and mixed with fresh mint, crunchy pistachios, and the flavorful dressing, creating a perfect balance of textures. You can even add extra mint and red pepper flakes for a bit of extra spice.

The Moroccan-inspired carrot salad with feta and pistachios is a visually appealing salad made with rainbow carrots, sliced into thin strips, and mixed with chopped carrot tops, mint, and pistachios. The dressing includes a blend of oil, vinegar, orange blossom water, honey, cumin, cardamom, red pepper flakes, and salt.

This salad is not only vegetarian and gluten-free but can also be made vegan by omitting the feta. It is a perfect dish for spring and offers a burst of flavours and textures.

• Serve the carrot salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and balanced meal.
• Add the carrot salad to a wrap or sandwich for a refreshing and nutritious filling.
• Serve the carrot salad as part of a mezze platter with other Mediterranean-inspired dishes like hummus, falafel, and tzatziki.
• Top the carrot salad with some roasted chickpeas for added protein and crunch.
• Serve the carrot salad alongside some crusty bread and a bowl of soup for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons orange blossom water 2 teaspoons honey
• 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1⁄4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for garnish
• 1⁄4 teaspoon sea salt
• 10 carrots, washed and tops trimmed and reserved
• 100 grams of coarsely chopped fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish
• 150 grams of chopped toasted pistachio nuts
• 200 grams of crumbled feta cheese

• Add the oil, vinegar, orange blossom water, honey, cumin, cardamom, and the 14 teaspoons of red pepper flakes to a jar, seal, and shake. You can also whisk the ingredients in a small bowl and set them aside.
• Slice the carrots into long, thin strips using a vegetable peeler, mandolin, or spiralizer. Take a handful of carrot tops and finely chop them (about 1/4 cup). In a large salad bowl, combine the carrot tops and carrot strips.
• Then add the mint and pistachios, and drizzle with the dressing. Combine well. The feta should be folded in gently. Serve with mint and extra red pepper flakes if you like your food spicy.

• Carrots are high in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for good vision, immune function, and healthy skin. Carrots are also a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
• Feta cheese is a good source of calcium and protein. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, while protein is essential for building and repairing tissues. Feta cheese is also lower in fat and calories compared to other types of cheese.
• Pistachios are packed with nutrients and antioxidants. They are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Pistachios have been linked to improved heart health, weight management, and reduced risk of diabetes.
• Mint is known for its refreshing and soothing properties. It aids digestion, relieves indigestion and nausea, and can help alleviate headaches. Mint is also rich in antioxidants, which protect against cell damage and support overall health.
• Orange blossom water is a natural ingredient that adds a unique flavor to dishes. It is a good source of vitamin C and has anti-inflammatory properties. It can also help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

• For vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free, leave out the feta crumbles.
• You can cut the carrot ribbons in half if you prefer shorter pieces. You may also use other carrots, such as shredded carrots if desired in place of the carrot ribbons. You'll likely need 2 bags of shredded carrots.