These microwave harissa carrots with feta and almonds are a healthy, low-carb side dish that comes together in just 5 minutes!

It's hard to believe this easy, low-carb microwave carrot side dish boosts so much flavor and texture — especially since it's made in under 5 minutes!

In this dish, microwave-steamed carrots are coated in flavorful harissa sauce and topped with creamy feta, crunchy almonds, and fresh parsley. The flavor combination is slightly spicy, sweet, and creamy, with a satisfying crunch — making you fall in love with carrots all over again.

Best of all, this dish is as easy as it is elegant. In just 5 minutes, you’ll have a side dish that’s healthy, beautiful, and downright delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but impressive.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Full of flavor: The harissa brings a gentle kick of heat, which is balanced by the creamy feta and the sweetness of the carrots.
• Texture rich: Tender carrots meet crunchy almonds, with a touch of creaminess from the feta.
• Quick and easy: Just pop the carrots in the microwave and the sauce can be made with the carrots heat.
• Healthy and nutritious: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats, this dish is a healthy low-carb side.

Ingredients

Carrots: The start of the show! We recommend purchasing whole, organic carrots if possible.

Harissa: We use Mina Harissa, a well-known brand that uses clean and simple ingredients. If you buy another brand, be sure to check the ingredients and avoid getting any with added sugar.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Olive oil is part of the harissa sauce that coats the carrots. You can swap with avocado oil or even melted butter if desired.

Fresh garlic & cumin powder: Fresh minced garlic and a pinch or two of cumin enhances the the flavor and spice of the harissa sauce.

Lemon juice: Just a little lemon juice is used to brighten the sauce.

Feta: We love topping the salad with crumbled feta, but you could also consider goat cheese.

Crushed slivered almonds: We love the added texture of crushed nuts. If desired, you could replace with crushed pistachios or hazelnuts.

Parsley: To add a bright, herby finish, we love to top with chopped fresh parsley. Or you could use fresh, chopped cilantro, basil or dill.

How to Make It

STEP 1: Place sliced carrots in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 tablespoon water. Cover and microwave for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they’re tender but still have a slight bite. Drain water.

STEP 2: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, harissa, lemon juice, garlic, cumin and salt pepper. Whisk until well combined.

STEP 3: Toss prepared harissa sauce with steamed carrots until well coated. Sprinkle carrots with crumbled feta and crushed almonds.

STEP 4: Garnish with chopped, fresh parsley for a bright, herby finish (optional). Serve immediately.

How to Store

Place the cooled carrots in an air-tight container and store in the fridge for up to two days.

More Microwave Veggies

If you try this recipe, we would love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment, rate it, and tag @lowcarbsimplified on your photo of this recipe on Instagram or Facebook. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do!

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