Moroccan Carrot Ribbon Salad with Harissa & Golden Raisins

This Moroccan Carrot Ribbon Salad with Harissa & Golden Raisins has become one of my favorite ways to elevate humble carrots into something truly exotic and satisfying.

It’s bold, bright, and bursting with flavor—thanks to a North African-inspired blend of spices and heat from harissa, balanced by sweet golden raisins and a tangy lemon vinaigrette.

Perfect for potlucks, grilled mains, or just as a punchy side salad.

Made with peeled large carrots, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic spices, it offers a delightful balance of flavors.

The salad is easy to prepare and perfect as a side dish or light lunch. The addition of fresh chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness, making it a great option for any occasion.

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What is a Carrot Ribbon Salad?

A carrot ribbon salad features thin, wide strips of raw carrot, shaved with a vegetable peeler.

These delicate ribbons are tender yet crunchy and ideal for soaking up flavorful dressings.

Carrot ribbon salads are visually stunning, versatile, and often much faster to prepare than chopped or cooked vegetable dishes.

Refreshing Moroccan Carrot Ribbon Salad

This Moroccan carrot ribbon salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The vibrant orange ribbons of peeled large carrots are not only visually appealing but also provide a crisp bite that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of golden raisins.

The salad is enhanced with a zesty dressing made from fresh lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil, which brings a refreshing brightness to the dish.

Ground cumin and ground cinnamon add a warm, aromatic depth, making each bite a flavorful experience.

Ingredients That Shine

Key ingredients in this salad include the thinly sliced carrot ribbons, which serve as the base, and the plump golden raisins that introduce a touch of sweetness.

Fresh chopped cilantro is sprinkled on top, offering a burst of freshness that complements the other flavors.

Harissa paste, known for its bold and spicy profile, is a standout element in the dressing. This adds a layer of complexity, making the salad not just a side dish but a vibrant centerpiece for any meal.

Preparation Made Easy

Preparing this salad is a straightforward process that takes just 15 minutes. Start by using a vegetable peeler or mandoline to create thin ribbons from the peeled large carrots.

This technique not only enhances the presentation but also ensures that the carrots absorb the dressing beautifully.

Next, whisk together the harissa paste, fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.

This dressing is the heart of the salad, tying all the ingredients together with its zesty and spicy notes.

Combining Flavors

In a large bowl, toss the carrot ribbons with the golden raisins and the prepared dressing until everything is evenly coated.

1This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious dish.

For an added touch, let the salad marinate for about 10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the carrots to soak up the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Recipe Highlights

This Moroccan carrot salad is warm, spicy, and just a little bit sweet. The combination of golden raisins and harissa creates a flavor contrast that’s unexpected and delicious.

The cinnamon and cumin offer depth and earthy warmth, while lemon juice keeps everything fresh and zesty.

It’s a no-cook dish that makes a strong impression.

Highlights:

• Spicy, sweet, and citrusy
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• No cooking required
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• Vegan and gluten-free
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• Bold North African-inspired flavor
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• Great for meal prep or entertaining

Ingredient Notes

• Carrots – Their sweet crunch is the perfect base for the dressing and spices.
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• Golden Raisins – Add natural sweetness to offset the heat from harissa.
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• Harissa – A North African chili paste that adds heat, depth, and a hint of smoke.
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• Lemon Juice – Brings brightness and acidity to balance the dressing.
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• Olive Oil – Smooths out the heat and gives body to the vinaigrette.
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• Cumin & Cinnamon – A warm spice pairing that makes this dish uniquely Moroccan.
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• Fresh Cilantro – Adds herbaceous flavor and color on top.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Shave the Carrots
   Peel the carrots and use a vegetable peeler to shave them into long ribbons. Place in a large mixing bowl.
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2. Make the Dressing
   In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, harissa paste, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
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3. Toss the Salad
   Add golden raisins to the carrots. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to combine and coat evenly.
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4. Finish and Serve
   Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Once the salad is ready, transfer it to a vibrant serving bowl and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.

The bright green cilantro not only adds color but also a fresh taste that balances the sweetness of the raisins and the spiciness of the harissa.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a small dish of harissa paste can be served alongside the salad, allowing guests to add more spice to their liking.

This presentation on a rustic wooden table adds warmth and charm, making it an inviting dish for any gathering.

This salad pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled lamb, chicken, or merguez sausage
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• Couscous or pearl barley
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• Flatbread and hummus
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• Roasted eggplant or vegetable tagine
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• Chickpea stew or lentil soup

Tips for the Best Moroccan Carrot Ribbon Salad

Use a quality harissa paste—some are spicier or smokier than others, so taste and adjust to your preference.

Soak the golden raisins in hot water for 5 minutes if you want them extra plump. Letting the salad sit for 15 minutes after mixing helps the flavors meld.

Add the cilantro just before serving for the best texture and color.

Nutritional Benefits

This Moroccan carrot ribbon salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. With approximately 180 calories per serving, it offers a light yet satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

The combination of carrots, raisins, and healthy fats from the olive oil provides a balance of carbohydrates and fats, making it a wholesome choice.

With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this salad is sure to impress anyone at your table, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.

Storage of Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The carrots will soften slightly over time, but will still hold flavor.

Do not freeze or reheat.

Best served chilled or at room temperature.