Carrots are a tasty and crunchy vegetable enjoyed by both adults and children. Well known for improving vision, carrots have plenty of other health benefits.

1. Researchers have found a compound in carrots called falcarinol, a natural pesticide which may have anti-cancer benefits.
2. Carrots contain carotenoids which are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
3. Vitamin A in carrots helps to detoxify the liver and other nutrients help prevent dry skin.
4. They have anti-aging properties as carrots contain beta-carotene which is a powerful antioxidant.

Carrots are great for dental health because they stimulate saliva flow. Raw carrots have a slight scrubbing action on teeth, helping to remove plaque although of course they are never a substitute for brushing and flossing.

Why not try this nourishing salad which can be eaten warm or cold? It has the perfect combination of spices which works especially well with the sweetness of sultanas.

Carrot Salad with Spiced Quinoa Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 carrots
• ½ cup sultanas or raisins
• ½ cup quinoa
• ½ cup almonds
• 1tsp ground coriander
• 1tsp smoked paprika
• 1tsp ground cumin
• 1tbs honey
• 2tbs olive oil
• Juice of half a lemon

Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa under water, strain and add to saucepan with spices and 1 cup of water.
2. Season with salt and bring to boil, then reduce to simmer, cover and cook for 12 minutes.
3. While the quinoa cooks, slice carrots into ribbons and mix with lemon, honey and olive oil in a large bowl.
4. Toss together with cooked quinoa and remaining ingredients. Eat warm or allow to cool.

This salad will keep well in the fridge and is great for packed lunches.