Carrot raisin salad is a terrific appetizer or side dish. A spice blend with international origins will balance the sweet goodness of the carrots with a zippy dash of chili pepper or smoked paprika.

Ingredients

1 pound of carrots, peeled and grated (about 4 cups)
1/3 cup raisins

1/2 teaspoon chili pepper
1 clove garlic
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame salt
1 teaspoon sugar

Pour the grated carrots and raisins into a large mixing bowl. Separate the clumps of raisins and mix carefully into the grated carrots.

Place the chili pepper, garlic, lemon juice, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sesame salt and sugar in a small bowl. Whisk until well combined. Pour over the carrot raisin mixture and mix until incorporated. Scoop into food storage containers and marinate for several hours before serving.