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Chili Crisp Carrot Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 93 reviews

A vibrant and spicy Chili Crisp Carrot Salad made with crisp matchstick carrots, scallions, fresh cilantro, and a flavorful dressing of toasted sesame seeds, honey, ginger, and homemade chili crisp oil. This refreshing salad balances heat and sweetness with a satisfying crunch, perfect as a light side dish or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 3–4 large carrots, chopped into matchsticks (200g chopped)
  • 2–3 large scallions, thinly sliced (40g sliced), plus more for garnish
  • 2 tbsp minced cilantro (8g)
  • 1 tbsp (12g) lemon juice
  • Kosher salt to taste

Dressing

  • 2 tbsp (20g) sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp (16g) honey
  • 2 tsp (3g) toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 tsp (10g) finely grated ginger
  • 1–2 tsp (6g) chili crisp (adjust to your spice level)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Carrots and Scallions: Chop the tops and bottoms off the carrots, then cut each carrot into halves or thirds to about 3 inches in length. Use a mandoline set to the thinnest setting or an interchangeable blade to create thin carrot ribbons; slice these ribbons into matchsticks. Thinly slice the scallions into matchsticks similar in size to the carrots. Combine the carrots, scallions, cilantro, lemon juice, and a generous sprinkle of kosher salt in a bowl. Toss well and let sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the carrots to release some water and maintain crispness.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a heat-proof bowl or jar, combine the toasted sesame seeds, honey, grated ginger, and chili crisp. Heat the sesame oil in a small pan over high heat until it shimmers and appears watery—this indicates the oil is hot. Carefully pour the hot oil over the bowl of aromatics to flash cook the ginger and enhance all the flavors. Stir the dressing thoroughly to combine.
  3. Toss and Serve: Drain any accumulated water from the carrot mixture. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Garnish with extra chili crisp and sliced scallions, then serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Tossing carrots with salt and letting them sit helps soften them slightly while still retaining crunch.
  • Adjust chili crisp quantity to match your desired spice level.
  • Use fresh ginger for best aromatic and flavor impact.
  • Serve immediately to preserve the crisp texture of the carrots.
  • If you don’t have a mandoline, carefully use a sharp knife to julienne the carrots into thin matchsticks.

Keywords: chili crisp carrot salad, spicy carrot salad, Asian carrot salad, sesame carrot salad, healthy side dish, vegetarian salad

Find it online: https://dinewithlily.com/chili-crisp-carrot-salad-recipe/