Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite side dish—Beet & Carrot Slaw! This vibrant, crunchy salad is like a burst of freshness in every bite. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; everyone couldn’t stop raving about the colors and flavors. The combination of sweet beets and crisp carrots is not just visually stunning, but it’s also incredibly satisfying to munch on. And the best part? It’s quick to whip up, healthy, and completely vegan! Seriously, within just 15 minutes, you can have this refreshing slaw ready to impress your guests or add a zing to your weeknight dinners. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be your go-to salad for every occasion!
Ingredients List
- 2 medium beets, grated – Choose firm, fresh beets for the best flavor and color.
- 2 large carrots, grated – Look for bright orange carrots; they’ll add sweetness and crunch.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a lovely herbal note.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar – This tangy vinegar balances the sweetness of the beets and carrots.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – A good quality olive oil enhances the flavor and richness.
- 1 tablespoon honey – You can adjust this to taste, depending on how sweet you like your slaw!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Just a pinch of each will elevate all the flavors beautifully.
How to Prepare Beet & Carrot Slaw
Getting your Beet & Carrot Slaw ready is a breeze! I love how simple it is, yet the flavors are so vibrant and lively. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a colorful dish that everyone will adore in no time. Oh, and don’t forget to let it sit a bit to let those flavors mingle—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by grating the beets and carrots into a large mixing bowl. You can use a box grater or a food processor if you have one handy. Just be careful with those beets; they can be a little messy!
- Add in the freshly chopped parsley. It adds a lovely pop of color and flavor to the slaw.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Make sure it’s well combined; this dressing is what brings everything to life!
- Pour the dressing over the grated beet and carrot mixture. Now, here’s where the fun begins—toss everything together! Use your hands or salad tongs to mix it thoroughly, ensuring every bit is coated in that tangy goodness.
- Let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows all those flavors to blend beautifully. It’s like letting a good wine breathe!
And that’s it! You’ve just created a vibrant, refreshing slaw that’s perfect for any occasion. I promise, once you’ve made it, you’ll want to keep coming back for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare – Seriously, you can have this slaw ready in just 15 minutes! Ideal for those busy weeknights.
- Refreshing and crunchy texture – The combination of beets and carrots gives you that satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Healthy and vegan-friendly – Packed with nutrients, this slaw is a guilt-free addition to any meal.
- Great for meal prep – Make a big batch at the start of the week, and you’ll have a tasty side ready to go!
- Perfect for picnics and barbecues – Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a hit at gatherings, and it travels well!
Tips for Success
To make your Beet & Carrot Slaw truly shine, here are a few tips that I swear by! First off, don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness. If you find the slaw a bit tangy for your taste, simply add a little more honey until it’s just right for you. Also, consider letting the slaw sit a bit longer than 15 minutes if you have the time—this extra resting period allows all those fabulous flavors to meld together even more, making every bite a burst of deliciousness!
Another fun tip: if you want to elevate the flavors even further, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. It adds a zesty brightness that complements the earthy beets beautifully. And remember, when mixing, be gentle to keep those beautiful colors intact. Enjoy your crunchy, vibrant creation!
Variations
If you want to switch things up with your Beet & Carrot Slaw, there are endless possibilities to explore! One of my favorite variations is to add a handful of walnuts or pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch and a boost of healthy fats. You could also toss in some shredded cabbage for added texture and color. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to give it a warm, earthy twist.
Herbs can also play a significant role in transforming this slaw. Instead of parsley, consider using cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor or mint for a cool, refreshing vibe. And don’t forget about fruit! A handful of diced apples or mandarin oranges can add a delightful sweetness. The key is to experiment and find your favorite combination—your Beet & Carrot Slaw is a canvas for creativity!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Beet & Carrot Slaw is super easy! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, but trust me, it’s usually gone way before that! The flavors only get better as they meld together, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply give it a good toss to mix everything up. I recommend serving it chilled for the best taste. If it seems a bit dry after sitting in the fridge, feel free to drizzle a little more olive oil or a splash of vinegar to freshen it up. Enjoy this vibrant slaw as a side dish, or toss it onto your favorite sandwich for an extra crunch. You won’t regret it!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Beet & Carrot Slaw, you can indulge without any guilt! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 7g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind that these values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and measurements. But one thing’s for sure—this slaw is a healthy addition to any meal!
FAQ Section
Can I make Beet & Carrot Slaw ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a few hours in advance or even the night before. The flavors really develop and deepen as it sits, making it even tastier when you’re ready to serve.
How long does it last in the fridge? This vibrant slaw can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Can I substitute the honey for a vegan option? Yes! If you want to keep it vegan, you can easily replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. They both work beautifully in this slaw!
What can I serve with Beet & Carrot Slaw? This slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, as a topping for tacos, or even as a refreshing side for sandwiches. It’s super versatile!
Is this slaw gluten-free? Yes! Beet & Carrot Slaw is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
For more information on the health benefits of beets, you can check out this Healthline article.
Additionally, if you’re interested in more delicious salad recipes, visit our blog for inspiration!
Lastly, for tips on how to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, see this Eat Right article.
Print
Beet & Carrot Slaw: 5 Delicious Reasons to Try Today
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and crunchy salad made with beets and carrots.
Ingredients
- 2 medium beets, grated
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Grate the beets and carrots into a large bowl.
- Add chopped parsley to the bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the beet and carrot mixture.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Let it sit for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve chilled for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Raw
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Beet & Carrot Slaw