Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the vibrant markets of Marrakech with this mind-blowing Roasted Moroccan Carrot Salad! Imagine sweet, caramelized carrots dancing with exotic spices, punctuated by the bright burst of lemon and the subtle sweetness of raisins. This isn't just a side dish - it's a flavor explosion that will revolutionize your understanding of what carrots can truly be. Whether you're a spice lover, a health enthusiast, or simply someone who craves extraordinary taste experiences, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Wash and peel the carrots, then slice them diagonally into approximately 1/2-inch thick pieces to ensure even roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced carrots with olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, and salt. Toss thoroughly to coat the carrots evenly with the spices.
- Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
- Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and caramelization.
- While the carrots are roasting, prepare the dressing by mixing fresh lemon juice with chopped parsley in a small bowl.
- Remove the roasted carrots from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes at room temperature.
- Transfer the warm roasted carrots to a serving dish and sprinkle raisins over the top.
- Drizzle the lemon-parsley dressing over the carrots and gently toss to combine all ingredients.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, lemon juice, or spices to suit your preference.
- Serve the salad warm or at room temperature as a vibrant side dish or light vegetarian main course.
Tips
- Slice Uniformly: Cut carrots diagonally to ensure even roasting and maximum caramelization.
- Don't Overcrowd: Spread carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet to achieve perfect roasting.
- Spice Balance: Toast your spices briefly before mixing to enhance their aromatic qualities.
- Fresh is Best: Use freshly ground spices for the most intense flavor profile.
- Raisin Tip: Soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to soften and plump them up.
- Temperature Matters: Serve slightly warm or at room temperature to maximize flavor complexity.
- Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better after the flavors have melded for a few hours in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
