I love making this Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad when I want something light, crunchy, and vibrant. The natural sweetness of the carrots paired with a nutty sesame dressing makes this salad refreshing, simple, and incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it’s quick, colorful, and packed with fresh flavor. I enjoy how the shaved carrots soak up the sesame dressing while still keeping their crunch. It’s a perfect vegan salad that works as a side dish or a light meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups rainbow carrots, shaved into ribbons
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 tablespoons green onions, thinly sliced
Directions
I start by shaving the carrots into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler and placing them in a large bowl.
In a small bowl, I whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and grated ginger until well combined. I pour the dressing over the carrots and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
I finish the salad by sprinkling sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top. I let it sit for about 5–10 minutes so the flavors can blend before serving.
Servings And Timing
This recipe makes about 2–3 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Total time: about 15 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add sliced cucumber or red cabbage for extra crunch. When I want more protein, I toss in edamame or chickpeas. I also enjoy adding a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I enjoy this salad cold and don’t reheat it.
FAQs
Can I use regular carrots instead of rainbow carrots?
I use regular carrots often, and the salad still tastes great.
Is this salad gluten-free?
I make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
I prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it chilled until serving.
What tool works best for shaving carrots?
I prefer a vegetable peeler, but a mandoline works well too.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
I find it great for meal prep since the carrots hold their texture well.
Conclusion
I keep making this Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad because it’s fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor with very little effort. It’s a simple vegan salad that always adds color and brightness to my table.
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This Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad is a light, crunchy, and colorful dish dressed in a nutty sesame-ginger vinaigrette. It’s easy to make, refreshing, and perfect as a side or light meal, showcasing the natural sweetness of carrots with a flavorful Asian-inspired twist.
- Author: Lizaa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 3 cups rainbow carrots, shaved into ribbons
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Shave carrots into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler and place in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, maple syrup, and grated ginger until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the shaved carrots and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use regular carrots if rainbow carrots aren’t available.
- Add cucumber, red cabbage, or bell pepper for extra crunch and color.
- Include edamame or chickpeas for added protein.
- Sprinkle chili flakes for a hint of heat.
- Best served cold; does not require reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
