Carrot Salad with Orange Juice and Orange-blossom Water

Carrot Salad with Orange Juice and Orange-blossom Water Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Arabia

Region / culture: Arabia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Carrot Salad with Orange Juice and Orange-blossom Water is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of carrots with the tangy citrus flavors of oranges. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish to accompany your favorite main course.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, where the combination of carrots, oranges, and orange-blossom water is a popular flavor profile. The use of cinnamon adds a warm and aromatic touch to the dish, making it a unique and flavorful salad.

Ingredients

500 g (1 lb 2 oz) carrots
2 juicy oranges
juice of 3 oranges
juice of 1 lemon
3 tbsp orange-blossom water
3 tbsp caster sugar
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground white pepper
1 tsp ground cinnamon

How to prepare

Peel the carrots and grate them into a serving bowl.
Carefully peel the oranges and remove the pith and seeds.
Cut the flesh into cubes and add them to the grated carrots.
Mix the orange juice, lemon juice, orange-blossom water, sugar, salt, and pepper, then pour the mixture onto the carrots and oranges.
Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate it.
Sprinkle cinnamon on top before serving the dish chilled.

Variations

Add chopped mint or parsley for a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
Substitute honey for sugar for a natural sweetener.
Mix in some toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to grate the carrots finely to ensure a uniform texture in the salad.

- Use fresh and juicy oranges for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and spices according to your taste preferences.

- Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Carrot Salad with Orange Juice and Orange-blossom Water as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs well with couscous or quinoa for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grating the carrots and cubing the oranges ensures a uniform texture in the salad. Mixing the dressing separately before pouring it over the salad helps distribute the flavors evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have orange-blossom water, you can use orange zest or orange extract for a similar flavor profile. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of sugar for a different sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. The flavors will continue to develop and meld together, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few orange slices for a beautiful and appetizing presentation. Serve it in a decorative bowl or on a bed of lettuce for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian dishes. It also complements Mediterranean or Middle Eastern-inspired meals.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some of its freshness and crunchiness over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Carrot Salad with Orange Juice and Orange-blossom Water contains approximately 120 calories, making it a guilt-free option for a light and refreshing meal.

Carbohydrates

Carrots are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. This salad is a healthy and low-calorie option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Fats

This salad is low in fats, making it a light and nutritious choice for those watching their fat intake.

Proteins

While this salad is not a significant source of protein, you can add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is essential for good vision and immune function. Oranges are a great source of vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system and promote healthy skin.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, if you have specific allergies, make sure to check the ingredients for any potential allergens.

Summary

Overall, this salad is a healthy and nutritious option that is low in calories and fats. It is a great way to incorporate more vegetables and fruits into your diet.

Summary

Carrot Salad with Orange Juice and Orange-blossom Water is a delightful and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Carrot Salad with Orange Juice and Orange-blossom Water. It was many years ago, during a trip to Morocco, where I had the pleasure of staying with a local family and learning about their traditional cuisine.

One evening, as I sat in the kitchen watching the matriarch of the family prepare dinner, she pulled out a bag of vibrant orange carrots and began to grate them with such skill and precision. As the sweet aroma of freshly grated carrots filled the air, she added a generous splash of orange juice and a few drops of orange-blossom water, creating a fragrant and refreshing dressing that would soon be tossed with the carrots to make a simple yet delicious salad.

I was intrigued by the combination of flavors and couldn't wait to taste the finished dish. When the salad was finally served, I took my first bite and was blown away by the vibrant colors and the burst of flavors in my mouth. The sweetness of the carrots paired perfectly with the tangy orange juice and the floral notes of the orange-blossom water, creating a harmonious blend that was both refreshing and satisfying.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this incredible dish so that I could share it with my family and friends back home. The matriarch of the family was kind enough to teach me her recipe, and I spent the rest of my stay in Morocco practicing and perfecting my own version of the Carrot Salad with Orange Juice and Orange-blossom Water.

When I returned home, I excitedly shared the recipe with my loved ones and they were just as impressed as I had been. The salad quickly became a family favorite, and I made it often for gatherings and special occasions. The bright colors and fresh flavors never failed to impress, and I loved watching the smiles on my family's faces as they enjoyed each bite.

Over the years, I have continued to make the Carrot Salad with Orange Juice and Orange-blossom Water, adding my own personal touches and variations to make it truly my own. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all been amazed by the unique combination of ingredients and the delicious results.

As I look back on that trip to Morocco and the incredible experience of learning this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to immerse myself in a different culture and cuisine. The Carrot Salad with Orange Juice and Orange-blossom Water has become more than just a dish to me – it is a symbol of the connections we can make through food and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with the ones we love.

So the next time you're looking for a refreshing and flavorful salad to brighten up your day, why not give my recipe for Carrot Salad with Orange Juice and Orange-blossom Water a try? I guarantee you won't be disappointed.