Description
A refreshing and vibrant Cucumber Carrot Salad featuring crisp julienned vegetables tossed in a tangy, slightly spicy dressing with sesame seeds and fresh herbs. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack with bright flavors and a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 large cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
- 2 large carrots, julienned or finely shredded
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (or cilantro)
- Optional: carrot ribbons, green onion, chopped roasted peanuts or cashews
Dressing
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp gochugaru Korean red chili flakes
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp sugar or maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Wash and dry the cucumber and carrots thoroughly. Then julienne or shred them evenly to ensure a consistent texture and ease of eating.
- Mix Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sugar until the mixture becomes glossy and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the prepared cucumber, carrot, fresh parsley, and minced garlic into a large bowl to prepare for the dressing.
- Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables in the bowl, ensuring it covers them evenly.
- Toss Salad: Toss all the ingredients together thoroughly to coat every piece of vegetable in the flavorful dressing.
- Add Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the salad and toss again lightly to distribute evenly.
- Rest & Serve: Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes to let flavors meld, or serve immediately for a fresher crunch.
Notes
- For make-ahead convenience, store the vegetables and dressing separately for up to 24 hours; toss them together just before serving.
- To reduce the heat, use less gochugaru or substitute with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add chickpeas, grilled tofu, or shrimp to transform this salad into a more substantial meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Korean-inspired
Keywords: Cucumber salad, carrot salad, Korean salad, gochugaru salad, healthy side dish, easy salad recipe, vegetarian salad
