This refreshing carrot and cucumber salad is super simple to make! It combines crunchy carrots and cool cucumbers, tossed in a light dressing for a tasty side dish.
I love how colorful this salad is! It’s great for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. Plus, you can whip it up in no time—perfect for when you’re craving something light! 🥕🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: I love using fresh, crunchy carrots for this salad. You can use baby carrots for quicker prep; just cut them into thin sticks. If you’re not a fan of carrots, try using radishes for a different bite!
Cucumber: A large cucumber works best, but you can use Persian or English cucumbers if you prefer a milder taste. If cucumbers are out of season, zucchini could make an excellent alternative!
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice color and flavor. If it’s too strong for you, green onions or shallots are great substitutes. You could even omit it altogether if you like a milder salad.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds freshness, but fresh dill or cilantro can bring a different twist. Pick your favorite herb to personalize the flavor!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Extra Fresh and Crunchy?
To keep your salad crisp, start by prepping your veggies just before serving. However, if you need to do some prep ahead of time, cut everything and store it separately to maintain freshness. Here are more tips:
- Keep your veggies in cold water until you’re ready to mix them. This chills them and helps retain crunch.
- Avoid dressing the salad too early, as it can make the veggies soggy. Wait until right before serving!
- For an extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts or seeds, like sunflower seeds or walnuts.
Easy Carrot and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium carrots, julienned or thinly shredded
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick to prepare! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and another 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld. So, in under 30 minutes, you will have a delicious and refreshing salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Veggies:
Start by washing and peeling the carrots. Then julienne (cut into thin sticks) or shred them using a grater. For the cucumber, slice it into thin rounds. If you want, peel it partially for a pretty, striped look—this adds to the visual appeal!
2. Add the Flavor:
Next, finely dice the red onion and chop the fresh parsley. These will add great flavor and color to your salad.
3. Combine Everything:
In a large mixing bowl, throw in the julienned carrots, sliced cucumber, diced red onion, and chopped parsley. Give them a gentle toss to mix everything well.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and honey (if you’re using it). Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and give it another whisk until everything is combined.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mix. Toss everything together until all the veggies are nicely coated with the dressing.
6. Let It Sit:
Allow your salad to rest for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your refreshing salad chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish. Enjoy the crunch and freshness!
FAQ for Easy Carrot and Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar?
Absolutely! If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can use white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that different vinegars may slightly alter the taste of the dressing!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The veggies may become a bit softer over time, but the flavor will still be delicious!
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
To make this salad more filling, consider adding some protein! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even crumbled feta cheese work wonderfully and complement the salad without overpowering the fresh flavors.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! This salad is already vegan-friendly. Just skip the optional honey in the dressing to keep it fully plant-based. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as an alternative sweetener if desired.
