MSG Free Carrot and Currant Salad with Ginger-Citrus Dressing
Bright, crunchy, and bursting with layers of flavor, this carrot salad is the kind of dish that looks effortless but tastes like you really thought it through. Coarsely grated carrots soak up a zingy dressing made from fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, grated ginger, and a touch of honey, while ground turmeric adds a warm golden hue and earthy depth. Dried currants bring little pops of sweetness throughout, and toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch that makes every bite interesting. The whole thing comes together with just a whisk and a toss — no cooking required beyond a quick skillet toast for the nuts. For anyone navigating hidden additives in packaged dressings and seasoning blends, this recipe is a breath of fresh air: every single ingredient is whole, recognizable, and completely clean. Letting the salad rest for a few minutes before serving is a small step that makes a real difference, giving the currants time to plump and the carrots time to drink in all that citrusy goodness. It works beautifully as a side dish, a light lunch, or a make-ahead addition to a bigger spread.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the salad
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and coarsely grated
- ⅓ cup dried currants
- ½ cup raw walnuts, roughly chopped
- 3 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 tsp honey
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Heat a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast, stirring frequently, for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden at the edges. Transfer immediately to a plate to cool.
- 2
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, ginger, honey, turmeric, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!