This fresh carrot and cucumber salad is a bright and crunchy dish! It’s super simple to whip up, using just carrots, cucumbers, and a light dressing that makes everything pop with flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Fresh, crunchy carrots are essential for this salad. You can use other colors like purple or yellow for visual appeal. If you’re short on time, pre-shredded carrots work too!
Cucumber: I recommend using English cucumbers since they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers are fine. For a different flavor, try using zucchini instead!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the salad. Lime juice is a perfect substitute if you want a different twist. For a milder option, apple cider vinegar can also work well.
Honey or Sugar: This is optional but balances acidity. Maple syrup can be a great plant-based substitute for honey, or you can simply leave it out for a tangy salad!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch in My Salad?
To ensure your carrot and cucumber salad stays crisp, follow these preparation tips:
- Use fresh vegetables. Choose firm carrots and cucumbers with no soft spots.
- Julienne your carrots and cucumbers evenly, so they have similar textures and sizes. This helps them mix well.
- Dress the salad just before serving to keep it from becoming soggy. If preparing ahead, store the dressing separately and mix it in when you’re ready to eat.
These steps will help your salad stay fresh and crunchy, making each bite a delight!
Fresh Carrot and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large carrots, peeled and julienned or thinly sliced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or lime juice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley or cilantro (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh carrot and cucumber salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a little time prepping the veggies and mixing everything together, making it a quick and easy dish to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by peeling the carrots, then cut them into thin strips or slices. For the cucumber, slice it thinly as well. This will give you a nice crunchy texture in each bite!
2. Combine the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, add the carrot and cucumber slices together. It’s colorful and vibrant looking already!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey (if you want a hint of sweetness), salt, and pepper. This dressing will enhance the flavor of the salad!
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the carrots and cucumbers. Toss everything together gently to make sure all the veggies are nicely coated in that delicious dressing.
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle in the chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of herbiness. Give it another gentle toss to combine.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer your beautiful salad to a serving bowl. If you like, top it off with toasted sesame seeds for a bit of crunch. You can serve it immediately or chill it in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes for an even fresher taste.
Enjoy this crisp, fresh salad as a light snack or a healthy side dish with your meal! It’s sure to brighten up your plate.
FAQ for Fresh Carrot and Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can mix in other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded cabbage for added flavor and texture. Just make sure to keep the proportions balanced for a delicious crunch!
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep in mind that the longer it sits, the softer the vegetables may become due to the dressing.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you’re looking for a different flavor or option, you can substitute olive oil with avocado oil, canola oil, or even sesame oil for a more pronounced nutty taste. Just be mindful that sesame oil has a stronger flavor, so adjust the quantity as needed.
Is There a Way to Make This Salad Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! The honey can be easily replaced with maple syrup or left out altogether for a plant-based option. The rest of the ingredients are completely vegan as well!
