Lentil Carrot Moroccan (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Salad Ingredients

01 - 3 celery ribs, chopped small
02 - Half a red onion, finely diced
03 - 3 cups of cooked French lentils prepared from 1 dry cup
04 - Grated carrots, about 4 cups from 8 medium ones
05 - A handful (1/2 cup) of fresh mint, chopped fine
06 - Raisins or currants, 1/2 cup
07 - 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds, pepitas, or toasted walnuts
08 - Optional: 1/3 cup sliced Kalamata olives

→ Dressing Ingredients

09 - 1/4 cup of quality olive oil
10 - 3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
11 - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
12 - A teaspoon turmeric powder
13 - A teaspoon of cinnamon
14 - 1 teaspoon each of smoked paprika and cumin
15 - Chili flakes, 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
16 - 3/4 teaspoon fine salt
17 - Black pepper, as much as you like
18 - Garlic minced from 2 cloves
19 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
20 - 1 teaspoon maple syrup

# Instructions:

01 - Throw the lentils, carrots, celery, onions, mint, raisins, and nuts/seeds into a roomy bowl. Give everything a good toss to mix.
02 - In a jar or small bowl, stir or shake together the oil, lemon juice, vinegar, spices, mustard, maple syrup, and the garlic until it comes together.
03 - Pour the dressing over the salad, then toss until coated well. Taste and add more lemon juice if you'd like a tangier kick.

# Notes:

01 - Store in the fridge and it’ll stay good for a few days.
02 - Add a drizzle of fresh lemon juice to leftovers before serving to perk up the flavors.
03 - You can swap out half the carrots for some shredded kale if you want a mix.