Cucumber Carrot Salad
This refreshing Cucumber Carrot Salad combines the crispness of fresh cucumbers with the natural sweetness of grated carrots, tossed in a tangy lemon and olive oil dressing. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a healthy, vibrant side dish or snack that adds color and crunch to any meal.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No cooking
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Main Ingredients
- 1 large fresh cucumber (firm and crisp)
- 2 medium carrots (grated finely)
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or cilantro)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or chopped walnuts
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash the cucumbers and carrots thoroughly. Peel the carrots if they are not organic, then grate them finely. Slice the cucumber thinly or julienne depending on your preferred texture.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine and Toss: Place the grated carrots and sliced cucumbers in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
- Add Finishing Touches: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs and optional toasted seeds or nuts over the salad if using. Toss lightly and taste, adjusting lemon juice, salt, or pepper as needed.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp cucumbers and sweet carrots for best flavor and texture.
- Salt and rest cucumber slices for 10 minutes then drain to reduce excess moisture and improve crunch.
- Grate carrots finely for an even blend with cucumbers.
- Let the salad rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Adjust lemon juice and olive oil to your taste preference for tanginess or richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cucumber carrot salad, healthy salad, vegan salad, gluten free salad, quick side dish, fresh vegetable salad