Carrot and Cucumber Salad

Name: Carrot and Cucumber Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Ingredients: 4 Carrots (Large); 2 English Cucumbers (Large); 3 Green Onions; 1 tbsp Sesame Oil; 2 tbsp Soy Sauce; 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar; ½ tbsp Ginger Paste; 2 cloves Garlic; 1 tbsp Honey; 1 tsp Chili Oil (optional)

Looking for a fresh and easy side dish that’s packed with flavor? This carrot and cucumber salad with a zesty sesame-ginger dressing combines crunchy vegetables and a hint of sweetness from honey. It’s a light, healthy option perfect for any meal, and it comes together in no time. Whether you need a quick side for dinner or a vibrant dish for meal prep, this salad is the perfect choice when you want something delicious in minutes!

Carrot and cucumber salad in a white bowl, ready to serve.

This salad shines because of its simplicity and bold flavors. The combination of fresh cucumbers and carrots brings a natural crunch that pairs perfectly with the rich sesame oil and zesty ginger. The homemade dressing enhances the vegetables without overpowering them, allowing the ingredients to stay light yet full of flavor. Plus, it’s a healthy option that feels satisfying without being heavy. The balance of savory and sweet makes it versatile enough for any meal, and the wholesome ingredients create a dish that feels elevated without being complicated.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch. Peeling them can enhance the texture.

Carrots: Large carrots add crispness and natural sweetness that balances the dressing’s flavors. Shredding or slicing them into thin pieces works best.

Green Onions: These offer a mild onion flavor without overpowering the salad. Finely diced, they contribute freshness. For a stronger taste, you can use red onion instead.

Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil is essential for that rich, nutty flavor. Be sure to use the toasted version for depth in the dressing.

Ginger Paste: This convenient ingredient delivers bold flavor quickly. Fresh ginger can be used as an alternative, but the paste saves time.

Soy Sauce & Rice Vinegar: Together, these form the dressing’s base, adding savory umami and a subtle tang that brightens the salad.

Honey: A touch of honey balances the savory and tangy notes. Maple syrup can be substituted if desired.

Chili Oil (Optional): For a hint of heat, chili oil adds a nice kick without being overpowering.

No special equipment is needed—just a sharp knife and a whisk!

How to Make Carrot and Cucumber Salad

Follow along with my easy instructions to see how to make carrot and cucumber salad in your own kitchen!

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Slice the English cucumbers in half or into thirds. Then, slice each piece in half lengthwise before cutting into half-moons. Peel or shred the carrots into long pieces, and dice the green onions finely.

2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger paste, and chili oil (if using). Finely dice or press the garlic, then add it to the dressing mixture.

3. Toss the Salad:
In a large bowl, toss together the cucumbers, carrots, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Bowl of salad, tossed with a wooden spoon.

4. Serve:
This salad is ready to enjoy right away, or you can chill it for a few minutes for a refreshing touch. Serve as a side dish or as a vibrant addition to meal prep.

Finished tossed salad in its glass mixing bowl.

Storing Leftovers

This carrot and cucumber salad is best stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, though the cucumbers may release some water, slightly softening the salad. To prevent sogginess, keep the dressing separate if you’re planning to store it longer than a day and mix it just before serving.

FAQs

What can I add to cucumber carrot salad?

Consider adding a protein source like grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp. You can also mix in edamame or sprinkle peanuts on top for extra texture and added protein without changing the fresh flavor of the dish.

How long does it take to make a cucumber carrot salad?

This salad is super quick and easy, with very little prep time! Overall, it takes about 10 minutes to make, and can easily be the kind of dish you throw together last minute to jazz up a family picnic or dinner party!

How to make vegan cucumber carrot salad?

Making this dish vegan is very easy, as none of the main components are animal-derived. The only thing you’ll need to replace to account for a vegan diet is the honey, which can be replaced with an equal amount of maple syrup to keep that depth of flavor.

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