This salad is vibrant, nutritious, and incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, it delivers bold flavor from the mustard dressing and natural sweetness from the carrots. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making it a crowd-pleasing option for many diets. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep or make-ahead lunches.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh carrots Dijon mustard lemon juice or white wine vinegar olive oil salt black pepper fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
Wash, peel, and finely grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor.
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, lemon juice (or vinegar), olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
In a large bowl, toss the grated carrots with the vinaigrette until evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Servings and timing
Serves: 4 Prep time: 10 minutes Chill time (optional): 30 minutes Total time: 10–40 minutes
Variations
Add nuts: Sprinkle with toasted walnuts or slivered almonds for crunch.
Include dried fruit: Add raisins or chopped dried apricots for a sweet contrast.
Herb boost: Use fresh herbs like chives, mint, or tarragon for more flavor.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the vinaigrette.
Creamy twist: Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy dressing.
Storage/Reheating
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.
No reheating is necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
What is French carrot salad made of?
It’s made of grated carrots dressed with a simple vinaigrette of Dijon mustard, lemon juice or vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Can I grate the carrots in advance?
Yes, you can grate them a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container and dress them just before serving.
What’s the best way to grate the carrots?
A box grater or food processor with a grating blade works best for achieving a fine, even texture.
Can I use pre-shredded carrots?
You can, but freshly grated carrots have a better texture and flavor for this salad.
Is French carrot salad healthy?
Yes, it’s packed with fiber, beta-carotene, and healthy fats from the olive oil.
Can I make this salad vegan?
It is naturally vegan as long as all ingredients used (like Dijon mustard) are free of animal products.
How long does it last in the fridge?
It will keep well for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes, add chickpeas, cooked lentils, or grilled chicken for a more filling salad.
Is there a substitute for Dijon mustard?
Whole grain mustard or yellow mustard can work, though the flavor will be different.
What can I serve with French carrot salad?
It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, quiche, or as part of a picnic spread.
Conclusion
French Carrot Salad is a fresh, flavorful side dish that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. With its zesty mustard vinaigrette and crunchy texture, it adds a bright note to any meal. Whether you serve it with a main course or enjoy it on its own, this simple salad brings a taste of French cuisine to your table with minimal effort.
French Carrot Salad, or carottes râpées, is a vibrant and refreshing dish made from finely grated carrots tossed in a tangy Dijon mustard vinaigrette. It’s a classic French favorite perfect as a side, starter, or healthy snack.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:10 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Salad
Method:No-Cook
Cuisine:French
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
4 cups freshly grated carrots (about 5–6 medium carrots)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons lemon juice or white wine vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Wash, peel, and finely grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor.
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, lemon juice (or vinegar), olive oil, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, toss the grated carrots with the vinaigrette until evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
Use freshly grated carrots for best texture and flavor.This salad improves in flavor after resting in the fridge.Add raisins, nuts, or herbs to customize the salad.A pinch of cayenne can add a subtle kick.Whole grain mustard can be used as a substitute for Dijon.
