Cold Marinated Carrots
A refreshing cold marinated carrot salad with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tomato soup, oil, vinegar, and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add sliced or diced onion, green pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to the boiling mixture.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors.
- Add cooked and cooled carrots to the marinade and stir to coat.
- Refrigerate the marinated carrots until chilled before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, let the carrots marinate overnight. You can substitute the green pepper with red or yellow ones for a sweeter taste. If you prefer a less sweet marinade, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup. To make this dish vegan, replace the Worcestershire sauce with a vegan alternative. You can also use fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
These cold marinated carrots are perfect as a refreshing side dish for barbecues or picnics. They pair beautifully with Slow Cooker Stew or grilled meats. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a salad like Supreme Bean Salad. They can also be enjoyed as a light appetizer or snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store the marinated carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can be served cold directly from the fridge. If you want to serve them warm, gently heat them in a saucepan over low heat, being careful not to overcook the carrots.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Marinated Carrots contains roughly 2211 calories, with 3g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 229g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw carrots instead of cooked?
While this recipe calls for cooked carrots for a tender texture, you can use raw carrots if you prefer a crunchier bite. Just slice them thinly and marinate them for a longer time to allow the flavors to penetrate.
How long should I let the carrots marinate?
For the best flavor, allow the carrots to marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. This gives the carrots ample time to absorb the marinade and develop a richer taste.
Can I add other vegetables to the marinade?
Absolutely! Feel free to add sliced cucumbers, radishes, or even celery for added crunch and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the marinating time based on the vegetables you choose.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).