Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad Recipe

This salad. Oh, this salad! It’s one of those recipes that started as a bit of an experiment in my kitchen, born from a desire to make carrots exciting again and use up a lonely block of feta in the fridge. What emerged was something truly special, a vibrant and flavorful dish that has become a staple in our household. My family, usually lukewarm to anything overtly “healthy,” absolutely devoured it. Even my notoriously picky teenager, who considers carrots a vegetable of last resort, came back for seconds. The combination of sweet roasted carrots, salty feta, crunchy walnuts, and a bright, tangy dressing is simply irresistible. It’s a salad that’s both comforting and refreshing, perfect for any season, and versatile enough to be a side dish or a light meal on its own. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your salad game and fall in love with carrots all over again, you absolutely have to try this Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.

Ingredients

This recipe shines because of the quality and combination of its simple ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the final symphony of flavors and textures that make this salad so memorable. Let’s break down each ingredient and understand why they are essential for achieving salad perfection.

• For the Roasted Spiralized Carrots:
  • 1.5 lbs Carrots (about 6-8 medium carrots): The star of the show! Opt for firm, fresh carrots for the best flavor and texture. While standard orange carrots are classic and readily available, don’t hesitate to experiment with rainbow carrots for a more visually stunning dish. The sweetness of carrots intensifies when roasted, creating a delightful base for the salad. We’ll be spiralizing them for a playful texture that also helps them roast more evenly and quickly. Consider buying organic carrots if available, as root vegetables tend to absorb more from the soil. If you are using regular carrots, ensure they are thoroughly washed and peeled. The quantity might seem like a lot, but roasted carrots shrink slightly, and you’ll find yourself wanting every last bite of these caramelized ribbons.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil is crucial for roasting vegetables. It not only prevents sticking and promotes browning but also adds a rich, fruity flavor that complements the sweetness of the carrots. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior taste and health benefits, but a regular olive oil will also work well. The olive oil helps the carrots caramelize beautifully in the oven, enhancing their natural sugars and creating those slightly crispy edges that are so addictive. Don’t skimp on the olive oil; it’s key to achieving that perfect roasted flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin: Cumin adds a warm, earthy depth to the roasted carrots that beautifully balances their sweetness. It provides a subtle smoky note and a hint of spice that elevates the overall flavor profile. Freshly ground cumin will offer the most potent flavor, but pre-ground cumin is perfectly acceptable and convenient. Cumin is a versatile spice that pairs wonderfully with root vegetables and adds a layer of complexity to the salad. It’s a seemingly small addition, but it makes a significant difference in the final taste.
  • ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika brings a delightful smoky sweetness to the carrots, enhancing the roasted notes and adding another dimension of flavor. It’s not just about heat; smoked paprika is all about depth and complexity. There are different varieties of smoked paprika, from sweet to hot. Sweet smoked paprika is ideal for this recipe, providing a gentle smokiness without overpowering the other flavors. If you enjoy a bit of heat, you could use a pinch of hot smoked paprika, but be mindful of the balance with the other ingredients. The smokiness of the paprika complements the cumin and olive oil beautifully, creating a robust flavor base for the salad.
  • ½ teaspoon Salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients. It draws out the moisture from the carrots, allowing them to roast and caramelize properly. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. Salt is not just about making things taste salty; it’s about bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients and creating balance. Seasoning the carrots properly before roasting is crucial for achieving a flavorful and delicious result.
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle bite and warmth that complements the other spices and enhances the overall flavor profile. Freshly ground pepper is always preferred for its brighter and more aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. Pepper, like salt, is a fundamental seasoning that balances the sweetness of the carrots and adds complexity to the roasted vegetable mixture.
• For the Salad and Dressing:
  • 5 oz Feta Cheese, crumbled: Feta cheese provides a salty, tangy, and creamy counterpoint to the sweet roasted carrots. Its briny flavor cuts through the richness of the olive oil and adds a delightful complexity to the salad. Look for block feta packed in brine rather than pre-crumbled feta, as it tends to be creamier and more flavorful. Drain the feta well before crumbling it to avoid excess moisture in the salad. The quality of feta can significantly impact the final taste; a good Greek feta will offer the most authentic flavor. If you prefer a milder feta, you can opt for French feta or feta made from cow’s milk, but for that classic salty tang, Greek feta made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep and goat’s milk is the way to go.
  • ½ cup Toasted Walnuts, roughly chopped: Toasted walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft roasted carrots and creamy feta. Toasting the walnuts is essential as it intensifies their flavor and enhances their texture. Raw walnuts can taste slightly bitter, but toasting brings out their natural sweetness and nuttiness. You can toast walnuts in the oven, in a dry skillet on the stovetop, or even in the microwave. Make sure to chop them roughly so you get satisfyingly crunchy pieces in each bite. Walnuts are not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats and nutrients, adding a nutritional boost to the salad.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of color to the salad. Its fresh, slightly peppery flavor complements the other ingredients and provides a refreshing element. Flat-leaf parsley (Italian parsley) is preferred for its stronger flavor and sturdier leaves compared to curly parsley. Make sure to chop the parsley finely so it disperses evenly throughout the salad and doesn’t become overwhelming. Fresh herbs are essential for adding vibrancy and freshness to any salad, and parsley is a classic choice that works perfectly in this recipe.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Dill, chopped: Fresh dill brings a unique, slightly licorice-like flavor that pairs wonderfully with carrots and feta. It adds a distinctive herbaceous note that elevates the salad and makes it truly special. Like parsley, fresh dill is crucial for its bright and aromatic qualities. Make sure to chop it finely and add it towards the end of the salad preparation to preserve its fresh flavor. Dill and feta are a classic Mediterranean pairing, and they work harmoniously in this salad, creating a complex and delicious flavor profile.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed: Fresh lemon juice provides a bright, acidic counterpoint to the richness of the olive oil and feta. Its tangy flavor balances the sweetness of the carrots and adds a refreshing zing to the dressing. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred over bottled lemon juice as it has a much brighter and more vibrant flavor. The acidity of the lemon juice also helps to tenderize the spiralized carrots slightly and create a light and refreshing dressing.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for dressing): Just like in roasting, good quality olive oil is essential for the dressing. It provides richness, body, and flavor to the dressing, emulsifying with the lemon juice to create a smooth and delicious sauce. Again, extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior taste and health benefits. The olive oil in the dressing complements the olive oil used for roasting the carrots, creating a cohesive flavor profile throughout the salad.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and emulsifying power to the dressing. It helps to bind the lemon juice and olive oil together, creating a creamy and cohesive dressing that coats the salad ingredients beautifully. Dijon mustard also adds a subtle spicy note that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dressing. You can use smooth or grainy Dijon mustard, depending on your preference. A good quality Dijon mustard will make a noticeable difference in the taste of the dressing.
  • ½ teaspoon Honey or Maple Syrup (optional): A touch of honey or maple syrup can balance the acidity of the lemon juice and add a subtle sweetness to the dressing. It’s optional, but it can enhance the overall flavor profile, especially if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing. Honey and maple syrup are natural sweeteners that complement the other ingredients and add a touch of complexity to the dressing. If you are vegan, be sure to use maple syrup. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste preference.
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste (for dressing): Seasoning the dressing properly is just as important as seasoning the carrots. Salt enhances the flavors of all the dressing ingredients, while black pepper adds a subtle bite. Taste the dressing and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. Remember that the feta cheese is already salty, so you might need less salt in the dressing than you think. Seasoning to taste is crucial for creating a dressing that perfectly complements the salad ingredients.

Instructions

Creating this Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad is a straightforward process, broken down into easy-to-follow steps. From prepping the carrots to assembling the final salad, each stage is designed to maximize flavor and texture. Let’s walk through the instructions step-by-step to ensure salad success.

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Carrots: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is ideal for roasting carrots, allowing them to caramelize beautifully and develop a slightly crispy exterior while remaining tender on the inside. While the oven is preheating, prepare your carrots. Wash, peel, and trim the ends of the carrots. Using a spiralizer, spiralize the carrots into ribbons or noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to create wide ribbons or simply chop the carrots into thin sticks. Spiralizing creates a delicate texture that roasts quickly and beautifully, but other cuts will also work. If you are using pre-spiralized carrots, ensure they are fresh and not too dry.
2. Roast the Carrots: In a large bowl, toss the spiralized carrots with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Ensure the carrots are evenly coated with the oil and spices for maximum flavor. Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can steam the carrots instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender-crisp and slightly caramelized at the edges. Keep an eye on them and toss halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your spiralized carrots and your oven. You want them to be tender but still have a bit of bite, not mushy.
3. Toast the Walnuts: While the carrots are roasting, toast the walnuts. Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor and crunch. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Alternatively, you can toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Watch them closely as they can burn quickly. Once toasted, roughly chop the walnuts and set them aside to cool. Toasted walnuts add a crucial textural and flavor element to the salad, so don’t skip this step!
4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil (for dressing), 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and ½ teaspoon of honey or maple syrup (if using). Whisk until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Taste the dressing and adjust the lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper to your preference. The dressing should be bright, tangy, and slightly sweet, balancing the richness of the olive oil and the saltiness of the feta. Making the dressing while the carrots are roasting saves time and allows the flavors to meld together.
5. Assemble the Salad: Once the roasted carrots are slightly cooled (you can enjoy them warm or at room temperature), transfer them to a large serving bowl. Add the crumbled feta cheese, toasted walnuts, chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh dill to the bowl with the carrots. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together to combine, ensuring the dressing evenly coats all the components. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to maintain the texture of the roasted carrots and feta.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for later. This salad is delicious served warm, at room temperature, or even cold. If you are making it ahead of time, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Garnish with extra fresh herbs, a sprinkle of toasted walnuts, or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired, for an extra touch of elegance. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of your homemade salad!

Nutrition Facts

This Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a salad you can feel good about eating, offering a balance of flavors and health benefits. Please note that the nutritional information provided below is an estimate and can vary slightly based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings

Per Serving (estimated, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 320-380 kcal
• Total Fat: 25-30g
  • Saturated Fat: 6-8g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 15-18g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 4-5g
• Cholesterol: 25-35mg
• Sodium: 450-550mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 15-20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5-7g
  • Sugars: 8-10g
• Protein: 8-10g

Nutritional Highlights:

• Good Source of Vitamin A: Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A. Vitamin A is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Carrots, walnuts, and olive oil are rich in antioxidants that help protect the body against cell damage.
• Healthy Fats: Walnuts and olive oil provide healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Fiber-Rich: Carrots and walnuts are good sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Protein Source: Feta cheese and walnuts contribute to the protein content of the salad, making it more satisfying and balanced.
• Source of Minerals: Feta cheese provides calcium, and walnuts are a good source of magnesium and phosphorus.

Dietary Considerations:

• Vegetarian: This salad is naturally vegetarian.
• Gluten-Free: This salad is naturally gluten-free.
• Lower Carb Option: While carrots do contain carbohydrates, this salad is relatively lower in carbohydrates compared to many grain-based salads.
• Customize for Dietary Needs:
  • Vegan: To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese. You can add toasted chickpeas or white beans for protein and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
  • Dairy-Free: Omit the feta cheese for a dairy-free version.
  • Nut-Free: If you have a nut allergy, you can replace the walnuts with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.

This salad is a delicious and nutritious way to incorporate more vegetables and healthy fats into your diet. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that tastes as good as it is for you!

Preparation Time

The beauty of this Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad is that it’s relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • This includes washing, peeling, and spiralizing the carrots (or alternative cutting method).
  • Chopping the parsley, dill, and walnuts.
  • Crumbling the feta cheese.
  • Making the dressing.
  • Preheating the oven and preparing the baking sheet.
• Cook Time (Roasting Carrots): 15-20 minutes
  • The carrots need about 15-20 minutes in a 400°F (200°C) oven to become tender-crisp and slightly caramelized. The exact time may vary slightly based on your oven and the thickness of the spiralized carrots.
• Toasting Walnuts: 5-7 minutes
  • Toasting walnuts can be done concurrently with carrot roasting prep or while carrots are roasting.
• Assembly Time: 5 minutes
  • Once the carrots are roasted and slightly cooled, assembling the salad is quick and easy. This involves combining the roasted carrots, feta, walnuts, herbs, and dressing.

Total Time: Approximately 45-52 minutes

Tips to Speed Up Preparation:

• Use Pre-Spiralized Carrots: If you are short on time, you can purchase pre-spiralized carrots from the grocery store. This will significantly reduce your prep time.
• Toast Walnuts in Advance: Toast a larger batch of walnuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. This way, they are ready to go whenever you need them.
• Make Dressing Ahead: The dressing can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
• Efficient Vegetable Prep: Organize your vegetable prep by washing and peeling all the carrots at once, then spiralizing them. Chop all herbs and walnuts together to streamline the process.
• Multitasking: While the carrots are roasting, use the oven time to toast the walnuts and prepare the dressing. This maximizes your time in the kitchen.

With a little planning and efficient workflow, you can have this delicious and healthy salad ready in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you need a flavorful dish in a reasonable amount of time.

How to Serve

This Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making it suitable for various occasions and meals. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

• As a Side Dish:
  • Alongside Grilled or Roasted Meats: The bright and tangy flavors of the salad pair beautifully with richer dishes like grilled chicken, steak, lamb chops, or roasted pork.
  • With Fish or Seafood: Serve it as a refreshing side to baked salmon, pan-seared cod, grilled shrimp, or roasted white fish. The salad’s lightness complements the richness of seafood.
  • Accompanying Vegetarian Mains: This salad is a wonderful side for vegetarian entrees like lentil loaf, vegetarian burgers, or stuffed bell peppers.
  • Part of a Salad Buffet: Include it in a salad buffet alongside other vibrant salads for a diverse and colorful spread, perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
• As a Light Lunch or Dinner:
  • Main Course Salad: Enjoy it as a satisfying and light main course salad, especially during warmer months. It’s filling enough on its own, thanks to the healthy fats, fiber, and protein.
  • Add Protein for a Heartier Meal: Boost the protein content to make it a more substantial meal by adding:
    • Grilled or Roasted Chicken or Tofu: Sliced grilled chicken breast or roasted tofu cubes adds protein and makes it a complete meal.
    • Chickpeas or White Beans: For a vegetarian protein boost, add a cup of chickpeas or white beans, either roasted or simply rinsed and drained.
    • Hard-Boiled Eggs: Halved or quartered hard-boiled eggs are a simple and classic protein addition.
  • Pair with Soup: Serve a smaller portion of the salad alongside a light soup, such as tomato soup, lentil soup, or vegetable soup, for a balanced and comforting lunch or light dinner.
• For Special Occasions and Gatherings:
  • Potlucks and BBQ’s: This salad is a crowd-pleaser and travels well, making it an excellent choice for potlucks, picnics, and barbecues. Its vibrant colors and flavors are sure to impress.
  • Holiday Side Dish: Consider adding it to your holiday menu, especially for Thanksgiving or Easter, as a lighter and brighter side dish to balance richer holiday fare.
  • Brunch or Lunch Parties: It’s a sophisticated and flavorful salad that’s perfect for brunch or lunch parties.
• Serving Temperature:
  • Warm: Serve the salad immediately after roasting the carrots for a warm and comforting dish.
  • Room Temperature: Allow the roasted carrots to cool slightly for a room-temperature salad, which is often preferred as it allows the flavors to meld.
  • Cold: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for a refreshing cold salad, perfect for hot days.

Presentation Tips:

• Garnish: Garnish with extra fresh herbs (parsley and dill), a sprinkle of toasted walnuts, a drizzle of olive oil, or a few extra crumbles of feta for visual appeal.
• Serving Bowl: Use a beautiful serving bowl that showcases the vibrant colors of the salad. A white or light-colored bowl will make the salad pop.
• Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, serve the salad in individual bowls or on small plates.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad is sure to be a hit!

Additional Tips for Salad Perfection

To take your Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad from delicious to absolutely extraordinary, here are five additional tips to elevate your salad game and ensure success every time:

1. Don’t Skip Toasting the Walnuts (and other nuts too!): Toasting the walnuts is absolutely crucial for unlocking their full flavor potential and achieving that satisfying crunch. Raw walnuts can be slightly bland and even a little bitter. Toasting brings out their natural sweetness and nuttiness, adding a depth of flavor and textural contrast that is essential to this salad. Beyond walnuts, consider experimenting with other toasted nuts like pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts for subtle variations in flavor and texture. Just remember to toast them lightly and watch them carefully to prevent burning.
2. Roast Carrots to Perfection – Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: The key to perfectly roasted carrots is to ensure they are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the pan will cause the carrots to steam instead of roast, resulting in mushy and less flavorful carrots. If you have a lot of carrots, use two baking sheets or roast them in batches. Give them space to breathe and caramelize properly. Keep an eye on them during roasting and toss them halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides. Aim for tender-crisp carrots with slightly caramelized edges – that’s the sweet spot!
3. Make it Ahead (with a slight tweak): This salad is fantastic for meal prep or making ahead of time for gatherings. You can roast the carrots, toast the walnuts, and prepare the dressing separately up to a day in advance. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator. However, for the absolute best texture, wait to combine everything and dress the salad just before serving. If you must dress it ahead, add only about half the dressing initially and then add the rest just before serving to keep the carrots and herbs from getting soggy. The feta and walnuts can be added earlier as they hold their texture well.
4. Vary the Cheese for Different Flavor Profiles: While feta is the classic and delicious choice for this salad, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses to create different flavor profiles. Consider:
   • Goat Cheese: Creamy goat cheese offers a tangy and slightly earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted carrots and walnuts.
   • Halloumi: Grilled or pan-fried halloumi adds a salty and squeaky texture that’s a delightful contrast to the soft carrots.
   • Ricotta Salata: This firm, salty Italian cheese provides a similar salty tang to feta but with a drier, more crumbly texture.
   • Blue Cheese: For a bolder flavor, try a crumbled blue cheese like Gorgonzola or Roquefort. The sharpness of the blue cheese creates a wonderful contrast with the sweetness of the carrots.
5. Herb Power – Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Parsley and dill are a fantastic combination in this recipe, providing freshness and herbaceous notes that complement the other ingredients. However, feel free to explore other herbs to customize the flavor to your liking. Consider:
   • Mint: Fresh mint adds a cooling and refreshing element, especially lovely in warmer weather.
   • Cilantro: Cilantro brings a bright, citrusy flavor that can be a great alternative or addition to parsley.
   • Chives: Finely chopped chives offer a mild oniony flavor that can add a subtle savory note.
   • Tarragon: Tarragon has a delicate anise-like flavor that can add a sophisticated touch to the salad.
   • Combination: Mix and match herbs! Try parsley and mint, or dill and chives, to create your own unique herb blend.

By incorporating these additional tips, you can truly master this Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad and make it your own signature dish. Enjoy experimenting and discovering your favorite variations!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are five frequently asked questions about the Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad, to help you troubleshoot and customize the recipe to your needs and preferences:

Q1: Can I use pre-spiralized carrots to save time?

A: Absolutely! Using pre-spiralized carrots is a fantastic time-saving shortcut. You can find them in the produce section of most grocery stores. Just make sure they look fresh and aren’t too dry. If they seem a bit dry, you can lightly toss them with a teaspoon of olive oil before roasting. Pre-spiralized carrots will roast just as well and taste equally delicious, making this recipe even quicker and easier for busy weeknights.

Q2: I don’t have feta cheese. Can I substitute it with something else?

A: Yes, there are several excellent feta cheese substitutes you can use. Good alternatives include:

• Goat Cheese: Provides a similar tangy and creamy texture, though slightly milder than feta.
• Halloumi: Grilling or pan-frying halloumi before adding it to the salad will give you a salty, squeaky cheese with a different but equally delicious texture.
• Ricotta Salata: Offers a salty, crumbly texture, similar to feta but drier and firmer.
• Paneer: Indian cheese paneer, pan-fried or baked, can provide a mild, milky flavor and a firm texture.
• Vegan Feta: There are many delicious vegan feta alternatives available made from tofu, almonds, or other plant-based ingredients. These are a great option for a dairy-free or vegan version of the salad.

Choose the cheese substitute that best aligns with your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Q3: Can I make this salad vegan?

A: Yes, making this salad vegan is very easy! The only non-vegan ingredient is the feta cheese. To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese. As mentioned in the previous question, you can substitute it with vegan feta for a similar flavor profile. To maintain the protein and satisfying element, consider adding:

• Roasted Chickpeas or White Beans: Toss chickpeas or white beans with a bit of olive oil and cumin and roast them alongside the carrots for added protein and texture.
• Toasted Sunflower Seeds or Pumpkin Seeds: If you want to replace the walnuts for a nut-free and vegan option, toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds will provide a satisfying crunch.
• Nutritional Yeast: Sprinkle nutritional yeast over the salad for a cheesy, umami flavor that can partially mimic the savory notes of feta.

By omitting the feta and potentially adding a plant-based protein source, you can easily enjoy a delicious and completely vegan version of this Roasted Spiralized Carrot Salad.

Q4: How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

A: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, the texture of the roasted carrots and herbs might soften slightly over time. For optimal texture, it’s best to store the dressed salad separately from the roasted carrots, feta, and walnuts. Dress only the portion you plan to eat immediately. If you’ve already dressed the entire salad, it will still be flavorful the next day, but the carrots may lose some of their crispness. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Q5: Can I serve this salad warm or cold?

A: Absolutely! This Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad is delicious served at various temperatures, depending on your preference and the season:

• Warm: Serving it warm, right after roasting the carrots, emphasizes the comforting and roasted flavors. This is especially enjoyable in cooler months.
• Room Temperature: Allowing the roasted carrots to cool slightly to room temperature is often ideal as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully without being too hot or too cold.
• Cold: Chilling the salad in the refrigerator makes it a refreshing and crisp dish, perfect for hot summer days. The cold temperature enhances the refreshing elements of the lemon juice and fresh herbs.

Ultimately, the best serving temperature is a matter of personal preference. Experiment and see which way you enjoy it most!

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