Name: Carrot and Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 large seedless cucumber; 1 cup julienned carrot slices; 1 tbsp avocado oil; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 2 tsp sugar; 2 tsp low sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp minced fresh cilantro; 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 1/4 tsp crushed red chili flakes (optional)

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A fresh, crunchy salad that takes minutes to make and tastes light and bright.

introduction

This Carrot and Cucumber Salad is simple and quick. It uses crisp cucumber, sweet carrot, and a tangy sesame dressing. It works well as a side or a light snack. If you like easy party sides, this salad pairs well with fun treats like a TikTok viral candy salad for a full spread.

why make this recipe

Make this recipe when you want a healthy, no-cook side. It is quick to put together and keeps well in the fridge. The flavors are bright and go with many meals. It uses few ingredients and gives a fresh crunch.

how to make Carrot and Cucumber Salad

Ingredients :
1 large seedless cucumber, 1 cup julienned carrot slices, 1 tbsp avocado oil, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, 2 tsp sugar, 2 tsp low sodium soy sauce, 2 tbsp minced fresh cilantro, 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 tsp crushed red chili flakes (optional)

Directions :

Wash cucumber and slice into thin slices.
Wash and peel carrot and julienne into thin strips.
Whisk all remaining ingredients to form the dressing.
Pour dressing over carrots and cucumbers and toss to combine.
Cover and let chill at least 20 minutes, up until overnight, to maximize flavors.
Enjoy!

how to serve Carrot and Cucumber Salad

Serve cold or chilled. Eat it as a side with rice, grilled chicken, or fish. You can put it on top of greens or in a wrap for extra crunch. For a light meal, add some cooked shrimp or tofu.

how to store Carrot and Cucumber Salad

Put the salad in an airtight container. Store in the fridge up to 2 days for best texture. The cucumbers release water over time, so drain excess liquid before serving if needed.

tips to make Carrot and Cucumber Salad

Slice thin so the salad feels light and easy to eat.
Chill at least 20 minutes to let flavors blend.
Taste the dressing and add a bit more sugar or soy sauce to balance acid and salt.
Use a seedless cucumber to avoid extra water.
For a party, make the dressing ahead and toss just before serving.
This salad also pairs nicely with sweet side dishes such as Valentine’s Day candy salad for a mix of sweet and fresh flavors.

variation (if any)

Add thinly sliced red onion for bite.
Use lime juice instead of rice vinegar for a citrus note.
Add chopped peanuts for more crunch.
Swap cilantro for mint for a different fresh taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular cucumbers?
A: Yes. Peel and remove seeds if they are large to reduce extra water.

Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: The recipe is already vegan if you use plant oil and omit any animal toppings.

Q: How long should I marinate it?
A: Chill at least 20 minutes. Up to overnight is fine for more flavor, but cucumbers may soften.

Q: Can I add protein?
A: Yes. Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or firm tofu to make it a fuller meal.

Q: Is sesame oil necessary?
A: It adds a nutty flavor. You can skip it, but the taste will be milder.

Conclusion

For another simple cucumber and carrot idea, check this version with a light dressing from Sprinkled With Balance. If you want an Asian-inspired take with similar flavors, see the recipe at The Green Creator.