Description
A refreshing and light carrot and cucumber salad featuring a tangy, slightly sweet dressing with sesame and ginger notes. Perfect as a healthy side dish or a simple snack, this salad is quick to prepare and offers a crisp, vibrant taste with fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds enhancing the flavors.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large seedless cucumber
- 1 cup julienned carrot slices
Dressing
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp minced fresh cilantro
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp crushed red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash the cucumber thoroughly and slice it into thin rounds. Wash, peel, and julienne the carrot into thin strips to match the cucumber slices for a harmonious texture.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together avocado oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, low sodium soy sauce, ground ginger, crushed red chili flakes (if using), and minced fresh cilantro until the sugar is dissolved and the dressing is well combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber slices and julienned carrots. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill to Enhance Flavors: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 20 minutes, up to overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more vibrant and well-rounded taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top for a delightful crunch and nutty aroma. Enjoy this crisp, refreshing salad as a side dish or light snack.
Notes
- For best results, use a seedless cucumber to avoid excess water in the salad.
- The crushed red chili flakes are optional; omit or adjust to taste for milder or spicier versions.
- Feel free to add other fresh herbs like mint or basil for a different flavor profile.
- This salad is best served chilled and can be kept refrigerated for up to two days.
- Lightly peeling the cucumber can reduce bitterness and improve texture if preferred.
