Carrot and Cucumber Salad – Crisp, Refreshing & Flavorful

This Carrot and Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, healthy side dish full of Asian-inspired flavors. The crunch of fresh cucumbers and the sweetness of julienned carrots pair perfectly with a tangy, savory dressing made from sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and cilantro adds depth and a hint of nuttiness, while a touch of ginger and crushed red pepper flakes gives it a satisfying zing. This salad is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a light snack, a side for dinner, or even as a meal prep option. You can also adjust the spice level by omitting or adding more red chili flakes and substitute avocado oil for your preferred neutral oil.

Ingredients

• 1 large seedless cucumber
  
  

• 1 cup julienned carrot slices
  
  

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  
  

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  
  

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  
  

• 2 teaspoons sugar
  
  

• 2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce
  
  

• 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
  
  

• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
  
  

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  
  

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
  
  

Directions

1. Wash the cucumber and slice it into thin slices. Wash and peel the carrot, then julienne it into thin strips.
   
   

2. Whisk together the avocado oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, soy sauce, minced cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, ground ginger, and crushed red chili flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
   
   

3. Pour the dressing over the carrots and cucumbers in a bowl, tossing to combine.
   
   

4. Cover and let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes, or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
   
   

5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 79 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 8g
  
  

• Protein: 1g
  
  

• Fat: 5g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 1g
  
  

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
  
  

• Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
  
  

• Sodium: 112mg
  
  

• Potassium: 201mg
  
  

• Fiber: 2g
  
  

• Sugar: 5g
  
  

• Vitamin A: 4542 IU
  
  

• Vitamin C: 3mg
  
  

• Calcium: 34mg
  
  

• Iron: 1mg