Korean Carrot Salad

Bright, zesty, and full of bold flavors, this Korean Carrot Salad is a spicy-sweet side dish that’s incredibly addictive! Inspired by Korean pickled dishes and popular in Central Asian cuisine, it features julienned carrots tossed in a garlicky, spicy, vinegar-based marinade. Whether you serve it with grilled meats, rice dishes, or on its own, this vibrant salad is sure to be a favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh & Flavorful – Crisp carrots with tangy, garlicky dressing and a spicy kick.
Quick to Make – Just 15 minutes of prep, then let it marinate.
Versatile Side – Pairs well with Asian meals, grilled dishes, and rice bowls.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes better after marinating in the fridge.
Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free – Great for all diets and meal plans.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Carrot Base:

• 5-6 large carrots, peeled and julienned (about 4 cups)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp white vinegar or rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander (optional but traditional)

For the Spicy Oil Dressing:

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil (or neutral oil like sunflower)
• 1 tsp paprika (for color and mild flavor)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 small onion, halved (for flavor infusion, optional)

Optional Garnishes:

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• Sliced green onions

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Box grater or julienne peeler
• Garlic press or knife
• Small skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or tongs
• Mason jar or container (for storing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

1. Peel and julienne the carrots using a grater, peeler, or knife.
2. Place the carrots in a large bowl.
3. Add minced garlic, salt, sugar, vinegar, black pepper, and ground coriander.
4. Toss well to combine and allow the carrots to release some juice.

Step 2: Heat the Oil and Spice It Up

1. In a small skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion halves (if using) and cook until lightly browned to infuse flavor, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the onions and discard.
4. Add paprika and red pepper flakes to the hot oil, stir for a few seconds, then immediately pour the spiced oil over the carrot mixture.

Step 3: Mix and Marinate

1. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the oil coats the carrots evenly.
2. Let the salad sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Before serving, give the salad a good toss.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or cilantro if desired.
3. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Tips for the Best Korean Carrot Salad
Julienne Finely – The thinner the carrots, the better they absorb flavor.
Let It Marinate – This dish gets more flavorful the longer it sits.
Spice Level – Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred heat.
Use Fresh Garlic – It makes all the difference in flavor intensity.
Oil Temperature – Ensure the oil is hot enough to bloom the spices, but don’t burn them.

Serving Suggestions
Bulgogi or Grilled Meats – Adds crunch and contrast to savory dishes.
Bibimbap or Rice Bowls – A flavorful veggie topping or side.
Lettuce Wraps – Use in wraps with grilled tofu or chicken.
Sandwiches – Adds texture and flavor to wraps and banh mi-style sandwiches.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Do Not Freeze: Freezing changes the texture of the carrots.

Reheating:

• Not needed—this dish is best served cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-shredded carrots?
   Yes, but fresh julienned carrots offer better texture and flavor absorption.
2. What if I don’t have coriander?
   You can skip it or substitute with cumin for a slightly different twist.
3. Is this recipe spicy?
   It’s mildly spicy, but you can adjust the heat to your liking.
4. Can I make it without oil?
   The oil is essential for blooming the spices and creating the signature taste, but you can reduce the quantity if needed.

Final Thoughts
This Korean Carrot Salad is a vibrant, zesty side dish that brightens up any meal. It’s crisp, tangy, a little spicy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled proteins or adding it to your favorite bowls, it’s a must-try for fans of bold, healthy flavors.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your dish turns out.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired / Central Asian

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 110 | Protein: 1g | Carbohydrates: 10g | Fat: 7g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 190mg

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