Extra Special Carrots
A vibrant, sweet and tangy carrot salad layered with onions and peppers, perfect for a refreshing side dish or a light appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook carrots to tender-crisp stage, about 10 minutes.
- Bring sugar and vinegar to a boil.
- Add tomato soup, vegetable oil, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
- Cook just long enough to blend the flavors.
- Layer cooked carrots in a 1 1/2-quart or larger container.
- Put onion slices and green pepper strips on top of the carrots.
- Repeat layers until all vegetables are used.
- Pour the hot sauce over the layered vegetables.
- Refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to blend.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly different flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or substituting honey for sugar. You can also use other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on what you have on hand. To save time, use pre-sliced carrots or frozen carrots; just ensure they're thawed before cooking. This dish is a great addition to any potluck or picnic.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these extra special carrots chilled as a refreshing side dish. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats or alongside hearty dishes like John'S Stir-Fry Deer Meat Over Rice. You can also serve them as part of a larger spread for gatherings, alongside other salads or appetizers, creating a colorful and flavorful buffet.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. If you want to reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Avoid boiling to keep the texture intact.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Extra Special Carrots contains roughly 370 calories, with 7g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (87% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 576mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it at least 24 hours ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to serve when you're ready for your meal or gathering.
What can I substitute for the tomato soup?
If you're looking for a substitute for tomato soup, consider using canned diced tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce. Just adjust the seasoning slightly to maintain the desired flavor balance in the dish.
Can I use different types of vinegar?
Yes, you can use other types of vinegar such as white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different taste. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, so choose one that complements the sweetness of the carrots and other ingredients.
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).