This Fresh Carrot and Cucumber Salad is a crunchy and colorful dish! It combines crisp carrots and cool cucumbers with a zesty dressing that makes every bite a treat.
Honestly, this salad is so quick to whip up that you’ll want to make it often! I like to toss in some herbs for extra flavor. It’s perfect for lunch or a side at dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Freshly grated or julienned carrots add crunch and sweetness. If you prefer, you can mix in colorful carrots like purple or yellow for a fun twist!
Cucumber: I suggest using a long, thin-skinned cucumber, like an English cucumber. However, if you can’t find it, any cucumber will work! Just remove the seeds if they’re large.
Lemon Juice: The fresh lemon juice brightens the salad. If lemons aren’t handy, a splash of vinegar (like apple cider or white wine) can be a good substitute!
Honey or Maple Syrup: This is optional sweetness, but if you’re looking for a vegan-friendly option, go with pure maple syrup or agave nectar.
Herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro elevates the flavor. If you like a different taste, try mint or dill instead! They give a fresh feel to your salad.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Crunchy?
Keeping your salad crunchy is all about timing and technique! Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the vegetables just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
- If you’re making the salad ahead, mix the dressing separately and toss it in just before serving.
- Remove excess moisture from cucumbers by salting them lightly and letting them sit for a few minutes. Rinse and pat dry before adding to the salad.
This way, you’ll enjoy a fresh and crunchy salad every time!
Fresh Carrot and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large carrots, peeled and grated or julienned
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts (optional)
Time Needed:
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You can serve it right away, or let it chill in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes to blend the flavors. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by peeling the carrots. Use a grater or a julienne peeler to cut them into thin pieces. Next, take the cucumber, slice it thinly or julienne it just like the carrots. Once done, add both the carrots and cucumbers into a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and black pepper. Using a whisk or a fork, mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.
3. Combine the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the grated carrots and sliced cucumbers. Gently toss everything together. Make sure the dressing coats all the vegetables for the best flavor!
4. Add Fresh Herbs:
If you’re using parsley or cilantro, chop it up and add it to the salad. Toss everything together again to distribute the herbs well.
5. Add Crunchy Toppings:
For some extra texture, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts on top of the salad. This will give it a delightful crunch and flavor!
6. Serve or Chill:
Your fresh salad is ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it immediately, or if you prefer, cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Either way, it’s sure to be delicious!
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English cucumbers are great for their thin skins and fewer seeds, you can use any variety. Just make sure to remove larger seeds, and if you use regular cucumbers, you might want to peel them to avoid bitterness!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already pretty close to vegan! Just ensure you’re using maple syrup instead of honey for sweetness, and you’re good to go!
What Other Add-Ins Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! Add-ins like bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado can bring in different flavors and textures. You might also like to try adding a pop of color with some cherry tomatoes!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables!
