Easy Asian Carrot Salad

Ingredients

• 8 oz carrots ((about 2 medium carrots))
• 3.5 oz red bell pepper ((about half a bell pepper))
• several sprigs of cilantro ((or mints or other fresh herbs))
• toasted sesame seeds or crushed roasted peanuts ((optional))
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 2/3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 4 tablespoons neutral-flavored vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt ((to taste))
• black pepper

Steps

1. 1

   Peel and julienne the carrots thinly. Dice the bell pepper into 1-inch pieces. You will have about 2 cups of julienned carrots and ⅔ cup of diced bell pepper.

2. 2

   To increase the crispness and freshness, you can soak the carrots and bell pepper in a bowl of iced cold water for 5-10 minutes. In case you are not serving the salad right away, refrigerate the veggies.

3. 3

   In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, vinegar, and oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add all the ingredients for the dressing to a container or jar that can be sealed tightly, then seal and shake it well to combine the dressing.

4. 4

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrots, red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until everything is well coated.

5. 5

   Transfer to serving plates and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or roasted peanuts on top if desired.