Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) Carrots, peeled and trimmed
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) Fresh Coriander (Cilantro), finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) Fresh Mint, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) Pistachios or Walnuts, coarsely chopped (or slivered almonds)
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) Raisins or Currants (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) Liquid Honey or Maple Syrup
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Harissa Paste (adjust to taste, use mild or hot)
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) Ground Cumin
  • 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) Smoked Paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) Fine Sea Salt
  • 1/8 tsp (0.6 ml) Black Pepper, freshly ground

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Carrots: Peel all carrots. Using a box grater (medium hole setting) or a food processor shredding disc, grate the carrots into a large mixing bowl. Ensure the shreds are uniform and not too fine (avoiding a mushy texture).
  2. Chop Aromatics: Finely chop the coriander and mint. Add them, along with the chopped nuts and raisins (if using), to the bowl with the grated carrots. Set aside.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, and honey (or maple syrup). Whisk until just emulsified.
  4. Add Spices and Seasoning: Add the harissa paste, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the wet ingredients.
  5. Whisk Vigorously: Whisk the dressing until everything is thoroughly incorporated and the harissa is fully distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning—if it’s too tart, add a splash more honey; if it lacks zing, add a touch more lemon juice.
  6. Dress the Salad and Toss: Pour the prepared harissa vinaigrette over the grated carrot mixture. Using tongs or clean hands, gently toss the salad until all the carrot shreds are evenly coated with the dressing.
  7. Chill (The Secret Weapon): Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes. This resting time is vital to soften the raw edge of the carrots and allow the spices to meld. Just before serving, give the salad a quick stir and check the seasoning one last time. Serve chilled.