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Beet and Carrot Salad with Coriander and Sesame Salt

This vibrant beetroot and carrot salad is a refreshing vegan dish that celebrates earthy root vegetables and bright, citrusy flavours. The combination of sweet carrots and deep red beetroot is elevated by a zesty orange and miso dressing, which provides a sophisticated savoury note. Topped with a homemade toasted sesame salt and freshly ground coriander, this salad offers a satisfying crunch and a complex spice profile that works beautifully with the raw, crisp vegetables.

Ideal for a light lunch or as a colourful side dish for a dinner party, this healthy salad is best prepared slightly in advance to allow the dressing to soften the vegetables. It is naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients, making it a brilliant choice for those looking for a wholesome yet delicious seasonal recipe. Serve it alongside grilled mains or as part of a plant-based spread.

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Ingredients for Beet and Carrot Salad with Coriander and Sesame Salt

  • 50ml minced shallot

  • 45ml plus 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

  • 1 tablespoon white miso (fermented soybean paste)

  • 1 teaspoon finely grated peeled fresh ginger

  • 1/2 teaspoons finely grated orange peel

  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons coriander seeds

  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

  • 3/4 teaspoons coarse kosher salt

  • 4 2-inch-diameter red beets, peeled

  • 450g carrots, peeled

  • Ingredient info: White miso (also known as shiro miso) is available in the refrigerated Asian foods section of some supermarkets and at a natural food stores and Japanese markets

How to make Beet and Carrot Salad with Coriander and Sesame Salt

Whisk shallot, vinegar, orange juice, miso, ginger, and orange peel in medium bowl. Let stand 10 minutes to allow flavours to blend. Gradually whisk in oil.

Toast coriander seeds in small skillet over medium heat until beginning to brown, about 2 minutes. Cool. Transfer to spice mill; process until coarsely ground. Add sesame seeds to same skillet. Toast over medium heat until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Add 3/4 teaspoons coarse salt; stir 30 seconds. Transfer sesame salt to small bowl and cool. DO AHEAD: Dressing and toasted spices can be made 1 day ahead.

Cover and chill dressing. Store toasted coriander and sesame salt in separate airtight containers at room temperature.

Using shredding disc on processor or a box grater, coarsely grate beets and carrots. Transfer vegetables to large bowl. Add enough dressing to coat lightly. Add coriander and 1 tablespoon sesame salt. Toss to coat. Let marinate at room temperature 30 minutes. Season salad to taste with salt and pepper. DO AHEAD: Can be made 4 hours ahead. Cover and chill.

Toss salad, adding additional dressing, if desired. Sprinkle with remaining sesame salt and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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