Moroccan Spiced Carrot Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Moroccan spiced carrot salad offers a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and pairs wonderfully with many dishes. The warming spices make it unique, while the fresh herbs and citrus keep it refreshing. It’s also naturally vegan, healthy, and great for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

carrots
olive oil
lemon juice
orange juice (optional)
ground cumin
ground coriander
paprika
ground cinnamon
salt
black pepper
garlic
fresh parsley
fresh cilantro
raisins or chopped dates (optional)
toasted almonds or pistachios (optional)

Directions

1. Peel and grate or thinly slice the carrots and place them in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice (if using), cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
3. Pour the dressing over the carrots and toss well to coat.
4. Add chopped parsley, cilantro, and raisins or dates if desired, mixing gently to combine.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon or spices as preferred.
6. Chill briefly to allow flavors to meld, then top with toasted nuts before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time (optional): 15 minutes
Total time: 15–30 minutes

Variations

• Add chickpeas for extra protein and a heartier salad.
• Include a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for heat.
• Use pomegranate seeds for sweetness and crunch.
• Swap lemon juice for preserved lemon if you want a more traditional Moroccan flavor.
• Add shredded cabbage or beets for extra color and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
No reheating is needed; this salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
If storing with nuts, keep them separate until serving to maintain crunch.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Yes, though freshly grated carrots have better texture and flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely; it even tastes better after sitting for an hour as the flavors meld.

Is this salad traditionally Moroccan?

It’s inspired by Moroccan flavors and spices commonly used in Moroccan cuisine.

Can I omit the raisins?

Yes, the salad is still delicious without them.

Can I use lime juice instead of lemon?

Lime adds a different flavor but works well as a citrus substitute.

How can I make it spicier?

Add cayenne, chili powder, or a bit of harissa.

What nuts work best?

Toasted almonds or pistachios complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I serve this warm?

Yes, lightly steam the carrots before mixing for a warm variation.

Can I use whole spices?

You can toast and grind whole cumin or coriander for deeper flavor.

What can I pair this salad with?

It pairs well with grilled vegetables, couscous, tagines, or roasted meats.

Conclusion

This Moroccan spiced carrot salad is vibrant, aromatic, and incredibly versatile. With its blend of warm spices, citrusy brightness, and fresh herbs, it brings a refreshing twist to any meal. Simple to prepare and perfect for make-ahead meals, it’s a dish you’ll love returning to again and again.

Moroccan Spiced Carrot Salad

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A bright and refreshing Moroccan-inspired carrot salad seasoned with warm spices, citrus, herbs, and optional dried fruit and nuts for texture.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15–30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: Moroccan-inspired
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• 4 cups carrots, peeled and grated or thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp orange juice (optional)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp raisins or chopped dates (optional)
• 2 tbsp toasted almonds or pistachios (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

1. Peel and grate or thinly slice the carrots and place them in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice (if using), cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
3. Pour the dressing over the carrots and toss well to coat.
4. Add the chopped parsley, cilantro, and raisins or dates if using, and mix gently to combine.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice or spices as desired.
6. Chill for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then top with toasted nuts before serving.

Notes

• Add chickpeas for a heartier, protein-rich salad.
• Use pomegranate seeds for extra sweetness and crunch.
• Swap lemon juice with preserved lemon for a more traditional flavor.
• Include shredded cabbage or beets for added texture and color.
• Add cayenne or chili flakes for heat.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg