A grated carrot salad or salade de carottes rapees is a popular salad in France that is often made at home but is available in every bistro and market as well. It is quick to make, can be endlessly varied and goes with just about anything. Not to mention it is refreshingly delicious and good for you.

The carrot needs to be finely grated for the salad and mixed with a little chopped flat-leaf parsley or other soft herbs. It is then dressed simply with lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper and with Dijon mustard if you like. Carrots sometimes need a little sugar or honey added to bring out their natural sweetness. You can include sultanas or nuts in the salad as well.

For a lovely Moroccan version of carrot salad, add some sliced oranges and sprinkle with orange blossom water and cinnamon.

This is a great salad to keep in mind during the summer and in fact all year round. I always have carrots, lemons and parsley on hand and often make it for a quick lunch with bread and cheese. I recommend trying it with the Cake aux olives (French olive loaf).

Photography by Andrew Sikorski.