Ina Garten Roasted Carrot Salad Recipe

Ina Garten’s Roasted Carrot Salad is a vibrant, hearty dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted carrots with a bright vinaigrette, creamy goat cheese, crunchy nuts, and a handful of greens. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors—ideal for a light lunch, a beautiful side dish, or an elegant starter.

This salad turns humble ingredients into something truly special with minimal effort.

What Is Ina Garten’s Roasted Carrot Salad?

This roasted carrot salad features tender, caramelized carrots tossed with a flavorful vinaigrette, peppery arugula or greens, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted nuts. Ina’s version balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes perfectly, making it an irresistible, colorful addition to any meal.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Broccoli Rabe
• Ina Garten Spinach Artichoke Dip
• Ina Garten Chili Brisket
• Ina Garten’s Vegetable Lasagna
• Ina Garten Million Dollar Chicken

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Roasted Carrot Salad

• Naturally sweet and savory – Perfectly balanced flavors
• Beautiful presentation – Colorful and fresh
• Healthy and filling – Packed with nutrients and fiber
• Versatile dish – Works as a side, starter, or light main
• Simple, wholesome ingredients – Easy to find
• Great make-ahead option – Roast carrots ahead and assemble later
• Elegant enough for entertaining – Impress your guests

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Roasted Carrot Salad

• 1½ pounds carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons honey
• ¼ cup good olive oil (for dressing)
• 5 ounces baby arugula or mixed greens
• ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
• ¼ cup toasted pistachios or walnuts
• Optional: fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Roasted Carrot Salad

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Roast the carrots

Toss the carrot sticks with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, turning once, until tender and caramelized.

Step 3: Prepare the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil until emulsified and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the salad

Place the arugula or mixed greens in a large bowl or on a platter. Top with the warm roasted carrots.

Step 5: Add toppings

Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and toasted nuts over the salad. Drizzle with the vinaigrette just before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Optional: Add fresh chopped herbs for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten’s Roasted Carrot Salad

• Grilled chicken or salmon – Makes a complete meal
• Quiche or savory tart – Great for a brunch spread
• Roast lamb or beef – Elegant dinner pairing
• Fresh baguette or flatbread – To soak up the dressing
• Simple pasta dishes – Lightens up a heavier meal
• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Rosé – Refreshing wine choice
• Hearty lentil or grain salads – For a filling vegetarian meal

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Roasted Carrot Salad

• Cut carrots evenly – Ensures uniform roasting
• Roast at high heat – Caramelizes the carrots beautifully
• Use good-quality olive oil – Enhances dressing flavor
• Dress right before serving – Keeps greens crisp
• Toast the nuts – Boosts flavor and crunch
• Use warm carrots for the best contrast – Warm carrots slightly wilt the greens in a delicious way
• Customize toppings – Try feta, almonds, or pumpkin seeds

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Roasted Carrot Salad

• Add roasted beets – For extra color and earthiness
• Toss in quinoa or farro – Makes it a hearty main dish
• Use blue cheese instead of goat cheese – For a bolder flavor
• Include avocado slices – Adds creaminess
• Swap arugula for baby spinach – Milder green option
• Top with pomegranate seeds – Adds bright, juicy pops
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze – Rich, sweet finish

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten’s Roasted Carrot Salad

• Store roasted carrots separately – Keeps salad fresh
• Refrigerate leftover carrots in an airtight container – Lasts up to 3 days
• Store dressing separately – Prevents soggy greens
• Assemble fresh before serving – For the best texture and flavor
• Do not freeze – Greens and cheese do not freeze well

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Roasted Carrot Salad

• Warm carrots briefly in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes – Refreshes them before tossing into the salad
• Microwave carrots for 20–30 seconds if needed – Quick option
• Toss greens and toppings after reheating – Maintains freshness
• Add fresh dressing after reheating – To revive flavor

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 420mg

A wholesome, colorful salad that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s roasted carrot salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the carrots and prepare the dressing a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the salad just before serving for the best texture.

Should roasted carrots be served warm or cold in a salad?

For the best flavor and texture, serve roasted carrots slightly warm or at room temperature. This enhances the salad’s overall contrast and taste.

What’s the best substitute for goat cheese in roasted carrot salad?

Feta cheese is a great alternative if you prefer a saltier flavor, or you can use ricotta salata for a mild and creamy option.

Can I add other vegetables to Ina Garten’s roasted carrot salad?

Absolutely. Roasted beets, parsnips, or sweet potatoes can be delicious additions to enhance the salad’s flavor and color.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Roasted Carrot Salad is a stunning, flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. With tender roasted carrots, creamy goat cheese, crunchy nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette, every bite offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

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