Don't Bring This Ribboned Carrot Salad to a Potluck If You Hate Compliments

By Nicole Perry

Updated on 6/25/2018 at 8:30 PM

POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry
POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry

This simple ribboned carrot salad might not be the first thing to jump off the pages of Louisa Shafia's cookbook The New Persian Kitchen, but skimming past it would make for a small tragedy. Vinegary and bright, with a nutty, roasted note from the toasted sesame seeds and oil, it's not only aesthetically pleasing but also far more nuanced in its flavor than its ingredient list would suggest.

POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry

Even better, it's quick (and easy) to prepare and can hold up to an overnight stay in the fridge, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and brown-bag lunches.

Vinegar Carrots With Toasted Sesame Seeds

YieldServes 4

From The New Persian Kitchen by Louisa Shafia

INGREDIENTS

    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon honey
    • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
    • 1/2 cup sesame seeds, toasted
    • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
    • Kosher salt
    • 1 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled lengthwise into thin ribbons
    • 1 cup tightly packed cilantro leaves

    INSTRUCTIONS

    1. In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, vinegars, honey, sesame oil, sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon salt. Pour the dressing over the carrots, add the cilantro, and toss well. Season to taste with salt, and serve.

    Notes

    If you're sensitive to spicy foods, then start with 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes and add more to taste. To make carrot ribbons, peel carrots, then swipe the peeler from the fat end to the tip to make ribbons.