Name: Mediterranean Carrot Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into coins 1 cup green lentils, rinsed 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or 1 teaspoon harissa 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 cup toasted almonds 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves

Bright, tangy, and bursting with flavor, this Mediterranean Carrot Salad is a refreshing twist on your typical veggie side. It features tender carrots cooked until just right, tossed with earthy green lentils, zingy lemon juice, warm spices, and a hint of garlic. Finished with toasted almonds and fresh mint, every bite is layered with texture and bold personality.

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and perfect served warm or chilled. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch or an eye-catching side dish for a gathering, this salad makes vegetables the star of the show.

What Kind of Carrots Should I Use?

For the best texture and flavor, go with large, firm carrots that hold their shape when cooked. Organic carrots often have a sweeter profile and are ideal for salads like this one, especially when sliced on the thicker side to soak up all the dressing without becoming mushy. You can also use rainbow carrots if you’d like to add extra color to the plate.

Ingredients for the Mediterranean Carrot Salad

Carrots
These are the heart of the salad. Choose fresh, firm carrots and slice them into coins. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the tangy and savory flavors in the dish.

Green Lentils
They add a lovely earthiness and protein boost. Lentils hold their shape better than other beans, making them perfect for hearty salads.

Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil enhances richness and helps carry the spice and citrus flavors throughout the dish.

Garlic
Minced garlic sautéed in olive oil builds the base for a savory, aromatic dressing.

Lemon Juice
Fresh lemon juice adds acidity and brightness, making every bite zingy and refreshing.

Ground Cumin & Paprika
These spices bring warmth and a subtle smokiness to balance the citrus and sweetness of the carrots.

Chili Flakes or Harissa
Add heat and depth, especially if you like your salads with a spicy kick.

Salt & Pepper
To balance and round out the flavors.

Toasted Almonds
For crunch and a nutty contrast to the tender lentils and carrots.

Fresh Mint Leaves
Mint adds a cooling herbal note that lifts the whole dish and complements the spices.

How To Make the Mediterranean Carrot Salad

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

Rinse the green lentils under cool water, then place them in a saucepan with water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 20–25 minutes until tender but still holding their shape. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prep and Cook the Carrots

Peel and slice your carrots into 1/4-inch thick coins. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the carrots and sauté for 6–8 minutes until just fork-tender. You want them to soften while keeping a bit of bite.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Spice

To the skillet with the carrots, add minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and chili flakes or harissa. Stir well to coat the carrots in the fragrant oil and spices. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until aromatic.

Step 4: Mix in the Lentils

Add the cooked lentils to the skillet with the carrots. Drizzle in fresh lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and gently toss everything together. Let it warm through for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the salad to a serving dish and top with toasted almonds and fresh mint leaves. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled depending on your preference.

How to Serve and Store This Mediterranean Carrot Salad

This salad is delicious served warm right after it’s made, but it’s equally wonderful chilled. Serve it as a main dish for a light lunch or alongside grilled chicken, fish, or flatbreads. It’s also great as part of a mezze spread with hummus, olives, and pita.

For storage, allow the salad to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers even more irresistible. Just give it a good stir and refresh with extra lemon or mint before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can make it up to 2 days in advance. It keeps well in the fridge and actually develops better flavor the next day.

Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, canned green lentils are a great shortcut. Just be sure to rinse and drain them well before adding to the skillet.

What can I substitute for almonds?

If you’re nut-free or just out of almonds, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Absolutely! It holds up well and travels great, making it perfect for packed lunches or prepped dinners.

Can I add protein to make it more filling?

Definitely. This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even feta for a vegetarian boost.

What if I don’t like mint?

You can swap the mint for parsley or cilantro for a different kind of fresh finish.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Mediterranean Twist?

If you enjoyed this Mediterranean Carrot Salad, here are a few other vibrant dishes from the blog you’ll want to try next:

Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad for a creamy, smoky fusion side.
Grilled Peach and Honey Mustard Dressing brings sweet and tangy flavor to any greens.
Easy Summer Peach Watermelon Salad is refreshing and fruit-forward.
Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad if you love classic comfort salads with a twist.
Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry for a satisfying and savory protein-packed main.

📌 Save this Mediterranean Carrot Salad to your Pinterest healthy recipe board so you can revisit it whenever you need a vibrant veggie fix.

And I’d love to hear how you made it your own—did you go heavy on the spice? Add chickpeas or crumbled feta? Drop your twists and questions in the comments below!

For more easy, flavor-packed recipes like this one, come follow along on my Pinterest: Life with Jam