ANDALUSIAN-STYLE MARINATED CARROTS (ZANAHORIAS ALIÑADAS) – AROMATIC & TANGY SIDE DISH
Discover the vibrant flavors of Andalusia with these marinated carrots, infused with Moroccan-inspired spices and a bright citrusy dressing. Known as “Zanahorias Aliñadas,” this dish offers a perfect balance of tanginess and aromatic herbs, ideal as a tapas appetizer or a refreshing side to grilled meats.
🕒 Prep Time: 10 min
🍳 Cook Time: 15 min
⏳ Marinating Time: Overnight
🍽️ Servings: 3
🥕 Ingredients
- 250 g carrots (whole, peeled)
- 50 ml olive oil
- 50 ml fresh lemon juice (from 1.5 – 2 lemons)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (or cider vinegar)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 bunch fresh parsley
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- Peel and boil whole carrots in salted water until fork-tender but not mushy (about 15 minutes for medium carrots). Avoid overcooking to prevent them from breaking during slicing and mixing.
- Drain carrots and let cool. Slice them into rounds or diagonal pieces. Sprinkle lightly with salt.
- In a mortar and pestle, crush garlic into a paste. Add chopped parsley, ground cumin, coriander, and oregano. Pound together, adding 1 tablespoon olive oil to help break down the parsley and combine flavors.
- Stir in fresh lemon juice and vinegar to the herb-garlic paste, mixing thoroughly to form the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the sliced carrots. Add the remaining olive oil and gently toss.
- Add enough carrot cooking water (about 50 ml) to cover the carrots and allow them to marinate fully. Mix gently to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight to let flavors meld. Serve at room temperature.
💡 Tips
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the brightest flavor.
- Adjust vinegar and lemon juice to balance acidity to your taste.
- These carrots pair wonderfully as a tapas dish with toasted bread or as a tangy side to grilled chicken and boiled eggs.
- Marinated carrots keep well for up to one week refrigerated.
🎉 Perfect For
- Spanish-style tapas and appetizers
- Light, refreshing side dish for grilled meats
- Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired meals
📝 Final Thoughts
These Andalusian marinated carrots deliver a wonderful mix of tangy, aromatic, and slightly spicy flavors that enliven any meal. Their easy preparation and vibrant taste make them an excellent choice to add bright Mediterranean flair to your table.