Sometimes I shy away from posting such simple recipes, because I think: is that really a recipe worthy to be posted on my blog?? But I think it is, just because it’s simple doesn’t mean it’s not good! And simple recipes are what makes us able to make healthy choices everyday, even when we’re really busy, especially during weeknights. This classic carrot salad served with raw seeds is delicious, fresh and can be made in 5 minutes at most. Everyone likes it and it’s really healthy. It also goes really well with this delicious Roasted beet, mushroom and spinach sandwich. (a complete healthy vegan lunch in 15-20 minutes!) 🙂
Did you know?
Carrots are a vitamin-rich root vegetable. You can find carrots in a variety of colors besides traditional orange, including yellow, red and purple. Carrots can be enjoyed raw or cooked or in juices and smoothies.One medium carrot contains 204 percent of your daily recommended value of vitamin A. In plant-based foods, this vitamin is produced by your body from the nutritional compound beta-carotene. This vitamin, also known as retinol, is responsible for maintaining the health of your eyes. Vitamin A helps your eyes retain their ability to adjust to changes in light and maintains necessary moisture and mucus levels.Carrots are also a good source of vitamins K and C. Vitamin K maintains your blood’s ability to clot. It also contributes to bone strength and kidney health. Furthermore, according to the Mayo Clinic, vitamin K may help reduce your risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma. One medium carrot contains 8 mcg of vitamin K. One medium carrot also contains 6 percent of your daily value of vitamin C, which is associated with a healthy immune system and strong teeth and gums. Vitamin C can also help your body absorb iron and can help combat free radicals.Fiber is one of three types of nutritional carbohydrates, your body’s main nutritional energy source. Fiber may be best known for its ability to promote bowel regularity. It can also help control your blood sugar levels and contribute to healthy weight management, as a diet high in fiber can keep you full for longer. A medium carrot will provide you with 2 g of fiber, or 7 percent of the daily recommended value.If you are hoping to raise your potassium intake, consider eating more carrots. One carrot contains 400 mg of potassium, or 11 percent of the daily recommended value. It may help reduce your risk of stroke, high blood pressure and anxiety. It helps to control your metabolism and improves the health of your muscles, heart and nervous system. Potassium also regulates electrolyte absorption and is necessary for proper hydration.
Quick Carrot Salad
(2-3 servings)
5 min preparation
- 2 large organic carrots, washed and shredded (use the large holes on the cheese grater) or simply make ribbons using a vegetable peeler (like picture) I used heirloom carrots (purple, orange and yellow)
- 1 Tbsp raw organic sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp raw organic sunflower seeds
- 1 Tbsp raw organic pumpkin seeds (white or black)
- 10-12 raw organic almonds (ideally, soaked for 2-8 hours), chopped in large chunks
- 1 Tbsp organic Sultana raisins (optional, but delicious)
- 1 Tbsp organic hemp seeds (optional, but delicious)
- 1/4 cup of either French shallot and apple cider vinegar or Apple cider and maple syrup salad dressing (your choice, both taste good!)
Mix all the ingredients in a medium bowl; you can add more or less of the salad dressing to suit your taste.
Could you, at some time, explain the concept of soaking almonds and other nuts? My sister in law was so delighted with hers, and I think she oven dried them for 18 hours too. Why is this a good thing to do? I thought raw was best? Thanks! And I love the links to other recipes. Great blog!
I will! I know soaking helps digestion and stimulates enzymes, but I’m still learning about the drying part. That’s what is called ‘activated’ almonds. I’ll post about it once I learn a bit more on the subject. Thanks!