Name: Roasted Spiralized Carrot, Feta, and Toasted Walnut Salad Recipe
Ingredients: 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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.

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Instructions

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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

Serving Size: One Normal Portion
Calories: 320-380 kcal
Sugar: 8-10g
Sodium: 450-550mg
Fat: 25-30g
Saturated Fat: 6-8g
Carbohydrates: 15-20g
Fiber: 5-7g
Protein: 8-10g
Cholesterol: 25-35mg