Raw Beetroot & Carrot Slaw
A vibrant, crunchy, and incredibly nutritious raw beetroot and carrot slaw, bursting with fiber and fresh flavors. This quick and easy recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the full benefits of raw vegetables.
For 4 servings
Wash and peel the beetroots and carrots thoroughly. Using a box grater (large holes) or a food processor fitted with a grating disk, grate both vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
In a separate small bowl, combine the tahini, fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, maple syrup (if using), sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Whisk the dressing ingredients together until well combined. Gradually add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water, whisking continuously, until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency that is thick enough to coat the vegetables.
Pour the prepared dressing over the grated beetroot and carrots in the large mixing bowl. Toss thoroughly with tongs or your hands to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated.
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley (or mint). Taste the slaw and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
Serve the slaw immediately for the best crunch, or cover and chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen before serving.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For easier grating, use a food processor with a grating attachment. If using a box grater, grate the beets over a cutting board covered with parchment paper to minimize staining.
- 2Adjust the dressing consistency by adding water gradually. You want it creamy but not too thick to coat the vegetables, nor too thin to drip off.
- 3This slaw can be made up to 1 day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The beets may 'bleed' and color the carrots slightly, which is normal.
- 4Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or cilantro, or add a pinch of ground cumin to the dressing for an earthy note.
Adapt it for your goals.
Added Crunch & Flavor
Stir in a handful of chopped apples, shredded red cabbage, or toasted nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for extra texture and flavor.
Creamier DressingCreamier Dressing
Replace half of the tahini with plain Greek yogurt (dairy or non-dairy) for a lighter, tangier, and even creamier dressing.
Protein BoostProtein Boost
Transform this side into a light meal by adding cooked chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese (if not vegan), or grilled chicken strips.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Beets and carrots are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Packed with Antioxidants
This slaw is loaded with antioxidants like beta-carotene (from carrots) and betalains (from beets), which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
Heart Health Support
Beets contain nitrates that can help lower blood pressure, while the potassium in both vegetables supports overall cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh grating yields the best texture and flavor, you can use pre-shredded carrots. However, pre-shredded beets are less common and may be drier, so grating fresh is highly recommended for beets.
