Cucumber Carrot Salad
When it comes to salads, there’s something refreshing about the crispness of cucumbers and the vibrant crunch of carrots. If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious, and delicious salad, this Cucumber Carrot Salad is the perfect choice. Packed with fresh ingredients, a touch of spice, and a balanced dressing, this salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrients.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Carrot Salad
- Quick and Easy: It takes just minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.
- Nutrient-Dense: Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants from fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own.
- Bold Flavors: The combination of sesame seeds, garlic, and a spicy-sweet dressing adds depth and excitement.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making a simple weekday lunch or serving guests at a gathering, this salad is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 1 large cucumber, julienned or sliced thin
- 2 medium carrots, julienned
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the dressing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon sugar
Health Benefits of Cucumber Carrot Salad
Cucumbers are incredibly hydrating due to their high water content and are a great source of vitamin K, which supports bone health. They are also low in calories, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet.
Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body. This nutrient is essential for eye health, immune support, and glowing skin.
Sesame Seeds add a crunchy texture and bring healthy fats, protein, and calcium to the dish. They also contribute a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Parsley is more than just a garnish! It’s rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and vitamin K, promoting overall wellness.
Gochugaru (Korean Red Chili Flakes) not only adds heat but also contains capsaicin, which may help with metabolism and heart health.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Use Different Dressings: Experiment with a peanut sauce for a different flavor profile.
Make it Crunchier: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds, peanuts or cashews for an extra crunch.
Try Different Herbs: Swap parsley for cilantro or mint for a fresh twist.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder salad, reduce the gochugaru or omit it altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! However, for the best texture, store the dressing separately and toss it with the vegetables just before serving.
2. What can I use instead of gochugaru?
If you don’t have gochugaru, try using red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper as a substitute.
3. Can I store leftovers?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
4. What pairs well with this salad?
It complements rice dishes and Asian-inspired meals beautifully.
Check out more recipes:
Savory Chickpea Granola Clusters
Cucumber Carrot Salad
Equipment
- Julienne peeler optional
Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber
- 2 large carrots
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Dressing
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp sugar you can substitute with maple syrup or agave
Instructions
- Wash and dry the cucumber and carrots. Using a sharp knife, julienne both vegetables into thin strips. Alternatively, I used julienne peeler to cut the vegetables faster. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir well until the ingredients are fully combined.
- Pour the dressing over the julienned cucumbers and carrots. Add the minced garlic and chopped parsley. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the salad and give it a final toss. Serve immediately for a fresh and crisp texture, or let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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