Carrot Ribbon & Arugula Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Some salads are just meant to impress—and this Carrot Ribbon & Arugula Salad with Balsamic Glaze is one I come back to over and over again.

I love the contrast of peppery arugula with sweet carrot ribbons, topped off with bold shavings of Parmesan and a tangy-sweet drizzle of balsamic glaze.

It’s easy, elegant, and the kind of salad that always gets compliments.

The preparation is simple and quick, making it a perfect choice for a healthy addition to any meal. The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful experience for your palate.

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What is a Carrot Ribbon Salad?

Carrot ribbon salad is a refreshing twist on classic greens. By using a vegetable peeler, you create wide, thin carrot strips that are tender, elegant, and perfect for soaking up dressings.

When paired with greens like arugula and layered with a few bold toppings, it becomes both a visual and flavorful standout.

Preparation Made Simple

Preparing this salad is quick and straightforward, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish.

Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, you can easily create the carrot ribbons that form the base of the dish.

Once the carrots are ready, combine them with the fresh arugula in a large bowl. The combination of textures from the crunchy carrots and the tender arugula creates a delightful experience.

Flavorful Additions

The richness of shaved Parmesan cheese elevates the salad, providing a creamy contrast to the fresh ingredients.

A sprinkle of this cheese on top enhances both the taste and visual appeal.

To finish, drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad, tossing gently to ensure every ingredient is well coated.

This dressing not only adds flavor but also brings a glossy finish that makes the salad look even more inviting.

Seasoning for Perfection

Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors in this salad. A pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the natural sweetness of the carrots and the peppery bite of the arugula.

After seasoning, give the salad a light toss again to mix everything together. This ensures that each bite is packed with flavor, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Recipe Highlights

This salad is rustic but refined, showcasing just a handful of quality ingredients. The arugula brings a sharp, peppery bite, while the carrot ribbons offer a crisp, sweet crunch.

The balsamic glaze adds a dramatic finish that balances all the flavors perfectly.

Plus, it only takes 15 minutes to make and requires no cooking, making it the perfect last-minute side or light lunch.

Highlights:

• Elegant and quick no-cook salad
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• Sweet and tangy with peppery balance
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• Vegetarian-friendly with bold flavor
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• Perfect for entertaining or everyday meals
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• Gorgeous presentation with minimal effort

Ingredient Notes

• Carrots – Choose large, firm carrots for easy ribboning and a sweet crunch.
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• Arugula – Adds peppery sharpness to contrast the sweetness of carrots and glaze.
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• Parmesan – Use shaved or thinly sliced Parmesan for rich, salty flavor and elegant presentation.
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• Balsamic Glaze – Thick and syrupy, this adds a sweet-tart depth; store-bought or homemade both work.
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• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps the ingredients meld together.
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• Salt & Pepper – Simple but essential for seasoning.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Prepare the Carrot Ribbons
   Use a vegetable peeler to shave carrots into long, wide ribbons. Set aside in a large bowl.
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2. Assemble the Salad
   Add arugula to the bowl with carrots. Drizzle with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and cracked black pepper.
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3. Toss and Garnish
   Toss gently to coat the leaves and ribbons. Top with shaved Parmesan.
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4. Finish with Balsamic Glaze
   Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top just before serving for the final touch.

Serving Suggestions

This carrot ribbon and arugula salad can serve as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own.

Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a perfect choice for gatherings or picnics.

Pair it with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal. The salad is not only nutritious but also visually appealing, making it a great conversation starter at any table.

This salad is perfect alongside:

• Grilled steak, chicken, or lamb
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• Roasted salmon or white fish
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• Lentil soup or vegetable bisque
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• Warm crusty bread and herbed olive oil
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• Mushroom risotto or pasta primavera

Nutritional Benefits

With only 170 calories per serving, this salad is a guilt-free option that packs a nutritional punch. The combination of fresh arugula and carrots provides vitamins and minerals essential for a healthy diet.

The healthy fats from olive oil and the protein from Parmesan cheese contribute to a balanced meal.

Enjoy this salad knowing you are nourishing your body while indulging in delicious flavors.

Tips for the Best Carrot Ribbon & Arugula Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Use a sharp vegetable peeler to get wide, smooth carrot ribbons. Don’t overdress—just a little olive oil goes a long way.

Add the balsamic glaze at the end to avoid soggy greens. For a richer flavor, use aged balsamic vinegar reduced into a glaze.

For extra flair, lightly toast pine nuts or walnuts and sprinkle them on top.

Storage of Leftovers

This salad is best served fresh, but you can store undressed leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 day.

Keep balsamic glaze separate and add just before eating. Do not freeze.