Shaved Carrot Salad with Ginger, Maple, and Sesame

Shaved Carrot Salad with Ginger, Maple, and SesameI was in Dartmouth last weekend as one of the chefs preparing this year's Slow Food Spring Supper. It's always a thrill for me to meet other people who value local quality food and drink. Before heading back to Cape Breton, I swung by the Farmers' Market to try one of Evan's famous fish burgers and stock up on some spring produce. I also picked up some cellar carrots from Noggins Corner, which are featured in this salad. Many friends who claim to dislike carrots will quite happily devour bowls of this crisp salad. Such is the power of the very thin slice and of flavours like ginger, sesame, and maple.

This salad is delicious on its own, but feel free to throw in a handful of bay shrimps. Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 lbs carrots, peeled into strips (I used mixed colors) • 1/4 cup unhulled sesame seeds, toasted • 1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger, grated • 3 tablespoons oil • 1 tablespoon maple syrup • 1 tablespoon rice or white wine vinegar • 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds, crushed • pinch sea salt • pinch dried pepper flakes • sprouts for topping (optional)

With a peeler, peel the carrots so you have long, thin strips. In a bowl, mix the shaved carrots with the rest of the ingredients. Let sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. Top with sprouts and toasted sesame seeds.