Roasted Carrot and Lentil Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing
This roasted carrot and lentil salad is warm, nourishing, and full of Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Sweet caramelized carrots pair perfectly with protein-rich lentils, fresh herbs, and a tangy honey Dijon dressing. It’s naturally gluten-free, filling, and works equally well as a main or elegant side dish.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Ingredients
Roasted Carrots
500 g carrots, peeled & sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp paprika
Salt & black pepper
Salad
1½ cups cooked green or brown lentils (well drained)
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup fresh parsley or mint, chopped
Optional: arugula or baby spinach
Honey Dijon Dressing
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
Roast the Carrots
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss carrots with olive oil, honey, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning once, until tender and caramelized.
Prepare the Dressing
Whisk olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, vinegar/lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine warm carrots, lentils, red onion, and herbs.
Drizzle with dressing and gently toss.
Serve
Serve warm or at room temperature over greens if desired.
Notes & Tips
Use green or French lentils for best texture.
Roast carrots until lightly charred for deeper flavor.
Let salad rest 5 minutes before serving—flavors meld beautifully.
Naturally mild and balanced (non-spicy).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this vegan?
Yes—swap honey for maple syrup.
Is this good for meal prep?
Excellent—keeps 4 days refrigerated.
Can I add cheese?
Yes—feta or goat cheese works beautifully.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 13 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 14 g
Fiber: 12 g