Growing up in the US, dinner was always pre-plated with an entree (usually meat), a vegetable, and a carb (usually rice, but sometimes potatoes). My mom was a good cook, but with a business to run, she was pressed for time, and mealtimes were practical and efficient. It wasn't until I moved to Japan a decade ago (almost to this day) that I realized there was a better way to eat.
Mealtimes in our household are leisurely and relaxed, and it's a time for my family to unwind and catch up on each of our days. The food is centered around a spread of 5-6 side dishes with no discernable entree, and the focus is on vegetables, with protein used more as a seasoning than a main ingredient.
This carrot salad is a perfect example of a dish that might show up on our table (In fact, it shows up at least once a week). It's not only nutritious and delicious; it makes for a colorful addition to the spread.
Salting the vegetables tames the onions while giving the carrots a wonderful crunchy texture. It also removes any excess liquid from the veggies, which keeps them from getting watery. This makes it a fantastic addition to bento box lunches (where the leftovers usually end up).
Access this Recipe
Welcome! I’m Marc Matsumoto, creator of No Recipes and author of the award winning cookbook Ultimate Bento. You’ve stumbled upon my secret stash with 349 original recipes with a new one coming every week! Unlike my other site, these recipes are member-supported, so you won’t find any banner ads here. Please consider becoming a member to access to this recipe, or you can check out some free recipes here.
- ✓ No ads
- ✓ Access the full stash of 349 recipes
- ✓ 1 new recipe per week
- ✓ Support Norecipes.com
Already a member?
Kathy Stroup says
This looks yummy! I think I would add some fresh ginger, since I love it on both carrots and tuna. It's a great way to stretch tuna; then you don't feel so guilty about buying the good stuff. I can eat a whole can by myself. At least I could get a couple of meals out of it this way.
I love your way of eating dinner. It's always fun to have a variety of dishes. My husband prefers an entrée, but he's been willing to eat a lot less meat lately.