Description
At its core, this spectacular dish is a multi-textured celebration of whole foods that delivers comfort and freshness in equal measure. The base of the salad relies on hearty, fiber-rich lentils that provide a solid, satisfying bite and a subtle, earthy undertone. Layered over these legumes are fresh carrots that have been seasoned and roasted in a hot oven until their edges are deeply caramelized and tender.
Ingredients
For the Roasted Carrots
- 1 lb (450 g) carrots, peeled and sliced lengthwise
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Salad
- 1½ cups cooked green or brown lentils
- 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup roasted pumpkin seeds
- ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Maple Tahini Dressing
- 3 tbsp tahini
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp water (more as needed)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Roast the Carrots
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
2. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, water, garlic powder, and salt.
- Add more water if needed until the dressing reaches a pourable consistency.
3. Assemble the Salad
- In a large serving bowl, combine the lentils, spinach, parsley, pumpkin seeds, and red onion.
- Add the roasted carrots.
- Drizzle with the maple tahini dressing and gently toss to combine.
4. Serve
Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with extra parsley, pumpkin seeds, or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Notes
Packed with wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors, this salad is perfect for a healthy lunch, easy dinner, or meal prep. The maple tahini dressing brings everything together with a creamy and flavorful finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasted
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390 kcal
Keywords: Roasted carrot and lentil salad with tahini, Maple tahini carrot lentil salad, Warm roasted carrot salad with lentils