Go Raw with Shaved Salads

Food Network's Carrot, Date and Feta Salad

Food Network's Carrot, Date and Feta Salad

Photo by: Tara Donne ©FOOD NETWORK : 2012, Television Food Network, G.P.

Tara Donne, FOOD NETWORK : 2012, Television Food Network, G.P.

It seems that spring is finally gracing us with its presence. In celebration of the season, bolt to your nearest farmers’ market — or produce section — for some fresh, fresh, fresh produce.

Here’s the catch: rather than zapping these veggies with heat, reach for a trusty kitchen tool instead: the mandoline. With its thin-slicing capabilities, this gadget converts veggies into some sensational no-cook sides. But be sure to watch yourself — this tool is seriously sharp. (Don’t have a mandoline? A standard vegetable peeler will work just fine too.)

Food Network Kitchens’ Carrot, Date and Feta Salad is a side that relies on the natural sweetness of this veggie for its flavor. Here’s a presentation trick: soak the thinly sliced carrots in ice-cold water. That way, each ribbon firms up, curls and becomes plate-ready. Keep in mind that the longer you let the finished product sit, the more intense the flavor will be.

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Summer Squash Carpaccio by Food Network Magazine is vibrant and vital as we progress into the warmer months. Here ribbons of yellow squash and zucchini are thin but perky as they marinate in a simple lemon vinaigrette with herbs and grated pecorino.

Though broccoli typically makes it to the table roasted or steamed, it’s crunchier than ever when it takes the fresh route. Using that trusty mandoline, serve up Alton Brown’s Fresh Broccoli Salad, a side that takes this fibrous veggie from bulky to easily eatable.

This Shaved Cabbage and Brussels Sprout Salad is reminiscent of your favorite coleslaw, though the sprouts definitely add an unexpected touch. Serve it at a backyard barbecue as a fresh no-cook side dish.

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Integrating fresh fruit into shaved veggie salads definitely keeps things interesting. David Lieberman’s Shaved Fennel and Green Apple Salad With Orange Dressing and Ricotta Salata and Giada De Laurentiis’ Shaved Carrot and Pear Salad With Curry Vinaigrette are colorful through and through.

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Photo by: VideoFocus

VideoFocus

With these no-cook recipes under your belt, don’t even think about touching that stove.