This Fresh Carrot and Cucumber Salad is light and crunchy! Full of bright colors and flavors, it’s perfect for a sunny day or any meal that needs a fresh touch.
Honestly, tossing these veggies together is so easy—my kids love helping out! Plus, this salad is a great way to add some healthy goodness to your plate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Fresh, crunchy carrots are the star here. If you need a quicker option, pre-grated carrots work too, but fresh ones are best for texture. A fun twist could be using rainbow carrots for extra color!
Cucumber: Use any cucumber you like, but English cucumbers are my favorite since they have fewer seeds and a tender skin. If you’re looking for a substitute, zucchini can work well too, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the salad. If you don’t have lemons, lime juice is a great substitute. For a sweeter taste, consider apple cider vinegar, but adjust the quantity to taste.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This optional ingredient adds a little sweetness. If you’re looking to keep it sugar-free, try using a pinch of stevia or skipping it altogether—the salad will still taste fresh!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Crunchy?
To keep your salad crisp, follow these steps:
- Peel and chop the carrots and cucumber just before serving to prevent them from losing moisture.
- After cutting the cucumber, you can sprinkle a little salt on it and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture; just remember to pat it dry.
- Dress the salad right before serving. If it’s sitting too long dressed, the veggies can become soggy.
These small tricks will help maintain that delightful crunch, making each bite enjoyable! Enjoy your fresh and vibrant salad!
Fresh Carrot and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 2 large carrots, peeled and julienned or grated
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced or julienned
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or lime juice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick and easy to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation. If you’d like to let the flavors meld, refrigerate the salad for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Altogether, you’re looking at about 25-30 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by peeling the carrots and cucumber if you prefer them without skin. Julienning the carrots can be done with a knife or a grater for a finer texture, while slicing the cucumber thinly will add a nice crunch.
2. Combine in a Bowl:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together your prepared carrots and cucumber until they are mixed well. Their vibrant colors make for a beautiful salad!
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and honey (if you’re using it). Whisk them together until mixed well. This dressing will bring everything together with its zesty flavor!
4. Mix and Season:
Pour the dressing over the carrot and cucumber mixture, tossing everything gently to ensure that all the veggies are coated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
If you’re using parsley or cilantro, add it to the salad now and toss once more. This adds a lovely fresh touch!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Top the salad with toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts for an extra crunch. This salad can be served immediately or chilled for about 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavors further before enjoying!
Delight in the fresh, crisp flavors of your carrot and cucumber salad. It’s a refreshing addition to any meal!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded cabbage. Just chop them into similar sizes to maintain a balanced texture.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
The salad is already vegan-friendly! Just make sure to use maple syrup instead of honey if you want to keep it plant-based. All other ingredients are naturally vegan.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
You can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to ensure the veggies stay crisp. Combine everything and toss it with the dressing just before serving.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the vegetables may start to lose their crunch after a day, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
