Description
This Crisp and Refreshing Cucumber Carrot Salad is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish, perfect for a light snack, lunch, or side. With fresh cucumber, carrots, and a zesty dressing made with sesame, garlic, and Korean chili flakes, it’s both nutritious and full of bold flavors. A customizable, easy-to-make salad that’s ideal for any occasion, and ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 large cucumber
- 2 large carrots
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp sugar (or substitute with maple syrup or agave)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and dry the cucumber and carrots. Julienne both vegetables into thin strips. You can use a julienne peeler or a sharp knife. Place in a large bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and everything is well combined.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the julienned cucumber and carrots. Add minced garlic and chopped parsley, tossing until the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the salad, toss again, and serve immediately. For a deeper flavor, let it sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the gochugaru amount or omitting it if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Add protein like chickpeas, edamame, or tofu to turn this salad into a hearty main dish.
- For a fresh twist, try adding bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
