This Fresh Carrot and Cucumber Salad is bright and crunchy! With sweet carrots and cool cucumbers, it’s perfect for a light snack or a side dish.
Add some lemon juice and a sprinkle of salt, and you’ve got a refreshing treat. I love how quick it is to make—just chop, mix, and enjoy while pretending to be a professional chef! 🥕🥒
Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Fresh carrots are a must for this salad! You can use regular orange carrots or feel free to add rainbow carrots for more color. Shredded carrots also work if you’re in a hurry.
Cucumber: Use a common cucumber, but English cucumbers are a great swap as they have fewer seeds and nicer skin. If you can’t find cucumbers, zucchini can work too for a different twist!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors. Lime juice is an acceptable alternative. If you don’t have either, vinegar can work—just use a little to balance the taste.
Honey or Maple Syrup: For sweetness, honey adds a unique touch, but maple syrup is a great vegan option. You can skip it if you prefer a more tangy salad.
Fresh Herbs: While parsley and cilantro are optional, I highly recommend using them! They add a lovely freshness. If you’re not a fan, try dill or mint instead!
How Do I Ensure My Veggies Stay Crunchy?
Keeping your carrots and cucumbers crunchy is all about how you prepare and store them. Here are a few tips:
- Keep veggies fresh by buying them shortly before you plan to use them.
- After slicing, let them sit in ice-cold water for a few minutes before mixing them into the salad. This can make them extra crisp!
- Avoid marinating the salad too long before serving, as the veggies can release water and get soggy.
Using these tips will help you have a refreshing salad that stays crunchy and delicious until the last bite!
Fresh Carrot and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and thinly sliced or julienned
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or lime juice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish (optional):
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Fresh Carrot and Cucumber Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld. So overall, you can have a crisp and refreshing salad ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by peeling the carrots. Then, thinly slice or julienne them into bite-sized pieces. Next, do the same with the cucumber. Once chopped, place both the carrots and cucumber into a medium bowl, ready for mixing!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth.
3. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the carrots and cucumber in the bowl. Toss everything gently to coat all the pieces evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful!
4. Add Fresh Herbs:
If you’re using parsley or cilantro, stir it into the salad now. This step adds a lovely fresh taste that brightens up the dish.
5. Let it Meld:
Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts for a nice crunch on top. You can enjoy this salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light snack!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Just toss the carrots and cucumber with the dressing right before serving to keep them crisp. If you’re planning to store it, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
What Can I Substitute for Honey or Maple Syrup?
If you prefer not to use honey or maple syrup, you can skip the sweetener entirely, or use agave syrup, stevia, or even a bit of sugar. Just adjust the amount to suit your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best eaten within 2-3 days. If the salad looks a bit watery from the cucumber, you can drain excess liquid before serving again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other crunchy veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or even thinly sliced cabbage for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to keep the ratios balanced for best results!
