Name: French Carrot Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Western
Ingredients: 4 medium carrots, peeled; 2 green onion stems, finely sliced on the diagonal; 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped (optional); Honey Dijon Dressing:; 1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This French Carrot Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing is a light, crunchy, and flavor-packed dish that’s ready in just 10 minutes. With sweet shredded carrots, zesty green onions, and a tangy-sweet dressing, it’s a fresh twist on the classic French version. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch, this salad is as easy as it is irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is the ultimate combination of simplicity and flavor. It’s quick to make, requires no cooking, and brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with a balanced honey Dijon vinaigrette. The texture is crisp, the taste is bright, and it pairs well with almost any main dish. It’s also perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a refreshing side for heavier meals.

French Carrot Salad

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

carrots
green onions
parsley (optional)

For the Honey Dijon Dressing:

Dijon mustard
honey
lemon juice (fresh)
extra virgin olive oil
salt
black pepper

Directions

Peel the carrots and grate them using a box grater or the shredding attachment of a food processor. Aim for strands about 4 cm (1.5 inches) long.
Place the shredded carrots in a mixing bowl along with the finely sliced green onions and chopped parsley (if using).
In a small jar or container with a lid, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Shake well until fully emulsified.
Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss until evenly coated.
Serve immediately or let sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 5 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add crunch: Toss in chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra texture.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Add fruit: Mix in golden raisins or sliced apples for a touch of sweetness.
Change the herbs: Swap parsley for fresh dill, basil, or cilantro for a new flavor profile.
Protein boost: Add chickpeas, shredded chicken, or crumbled feta for a more filling salad.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. No reheating is necessary.

FAQs

Can I grate the carrots in advance?

Yes, grated carrots can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days before using.

Is the parsley necessary?

No, it’s optional, but it adds a nice freshness and color to the salad.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

You can, but freshly grated carrots have a better texture and sweetness.

What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives for a vegan-friendly option.

How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?

Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to keep the carrots crisp.

Can I double the dressing?

Yes, and it stores well in the fridge for up to a week—perfect for other salads too.

What should I serve this salad with?

It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, sandwiches, or quiche.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, keep the dressing separate and mix just before serving.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It holds up well and even tastes better as the flavors meld.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

French Carrot Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing is a fast, fresh, and flavorful side that elevates simple ingredients into something truly special. With its vibrant color, crisp texture, and sweet-tangy flavor, it’s a salad you’ll come back to again and again. Serve it with your favorite main or enjoy it on its own for a refreshing bite any time of day.

Jessica