Easy Moroccan Lentil Carrot Salad - Fresh Vegan Dish

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup toasted sunflower seeds, pepitas, or walnuts
• 4 cups shredded carrots, peeled (around 8 medium)
• 3 cups of cooked French lentils (1 cup dry yields this)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (optional)
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried currants
• Half of a medium red onion, diced small
• 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• A pinch of chili flakes (if you want extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon grated turmeric powder
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• Black pepper to your taste
• 3/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar