Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad is a refreshing dish that will brighten up any meal. This vibrant salad combines crunchy cucumbers and sweet carrots, making it the perfect addition to your summer table or a healthy side dish throughout the year. The combination of flavors in this salad is not only delicious but also offers a healthy twist, ensuring you enjoy every bite without guilt. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful salad!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad
This Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad is a must-try for several reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Second, it offers a refreshing crunch that complements many main dishes beautifully. This salad is also low-calorie, making it perfect for those seeking a healthy Cucumber Carrot Salad. Furthermore, it’s vegan-friendly, which makes it suitable for various dietary preferences. You can serve it as a side with grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own. Finally, the zesty dressing elevates the flavors, creating a truly enjoyable experience.
Ingredients for Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad
Gather these items:
- 1 medium English cucumber (or 3-4 Persian cucumbers)
- 2 medium Carrots (julienned or shredded)
- 3 stalks Green onions (thinly sliced)
- 3 tablespoons Low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons Avocado oil (or neutral oil)
- 1 tablespoon Toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon Honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- to taste none Salt (remember soy sauce adds saltiness)
- to taste none Black pepper (fresh ground)
- 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds (for topping)
How to Make Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise, then cut into thin half-moons. Sprinkle with salt and let sit on paper towels for a few minutes.
- Step 2: Peel and julienne the carrots using a julienne peeler or a knife.
- Step 3: Thinly slice the green onions and set them aside.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, avocado oil, toasted sesame oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Step 5: In a large bowl, mix cucumbers, carrots, and green onions. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat.
- Step 6: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes.
Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the salt in the dressing, as soy sauce can add significant saltiness.
- For a more intense flavor, allow the salad to marinate for 30 minutes before serving.
- Explore variations like adding bell peppers or cilantro for an extra flavor boost.
Best Ways to Serve Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad
This Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it an excellent addition to summer barbecues. You can also enjoy it as a light lunch on its own or as a side to a hearty main dish. Consider serving it alongside Asian-inspired dishes, enhancing the meal with vibrant flavors.
How to Store and Reheat Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad
To store your Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days. If you wish to meal prep, consider making the dressing separately and mixing it with the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad
What’s the secret to perfect Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad?
To achieve the best Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad, ensure the cucumbers are salted and drained before mixing. This step removes excess moisture and enhances the crunch.
Can I make Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp and fresh.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad?
Common mistakes include not salting the cucumbers beforehand, which can lead to a soggy salad. Always salt and let them sit to achieve the best texture.
Variations of Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad You Can Try
Consider adding sliced radishes for extra crunch or a handful of peanuts for a nutty flavor. You can also create a Cucumber Carrot Slaw Recipe by incorporating shredded cabbage or kale. Play around with different dressings, such as a spicy sesame dressing, to switch things up.
For more healthy recipes, check out our Healthy Crockpot Recipe or Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe. You can also explore our Creamy Carrot Ginger Soup for a delicious twist on carrots!
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Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad: 5 Refreshing Benefits
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Crispy Cucumber Carrot Salad for a Refreshing Twist
Ingredients
- 1 medium English cucumber (or 3–4 Persian cucumbers)
- 2 medium Carrots (julienned or shredded)
- 3 stalks Green onions (thinly sliced)
- 3 tablespoons Low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons Avocado oil (or neutral oil)
- 1 tablespoon Toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon Honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- to taste none Salt (remember soy sauce adds saltiness)
- to taste none Black pepper (fresh ground)
- 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds (for topping)
Instructions
- Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise, then cut into thin half-moons. Sprinkle with salt and let sit on paper towels for a few minutes.
- Peel and julienne the carrots using a julienne peeler or a knife.
- Thinly slice the green onions and set them aside.
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, avocado oil, toasted sesame oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- In a large bowl, mix cucumbers, carrots, and green onions. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
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