Cucumber Carrot Salad

Cucumber Carrot Salad

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how simple, fresh ingredients can transform a meal into a vibrant and health-packed experience? The Cucumber Carrot Salad might just be the refreshing dish you need to elevate your lunch or dinner. This delicious salad pairs the crisp taste of cucumbers with the sweet crunch of carrots, offering nutrition and flavor in every bite. With a focus on plant-based ingredients, this salad is not just a culinary delight but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Let’s dive into the world of this invigorating Cucumber Carrot Salad!

Ingredients List

To make a delightful Cucumber Carrot Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers (preferably English or Persian for their thin skin)
• 2 large carrots (try using rainbow carrots for extra color!)
• 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped for a bit of tang)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped to add freshness)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a different flavor)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white wine or apple cider work well)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts for added richness and texture.

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using zucchini instead of cucumbers, or adding bell peppers for an extra crunch.

Timing

Preparing this Cucumber Carrot Salad is a breeze! The total time required is approximately 15 minutes, including washing and chopping the vegetables. That’s 30% faster than many complex salads, making it a perfect go-to recipe for a quick meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing the cucumbers and carrots under running water. Peel the carrots if desired, then chop the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and julienne the carrots for a beautiful presentation.

Step 2: Combine The Base

In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped cucumbers and julienned carrots. Toss them gently to combine.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Next, add the finely chopped red onion and fresh parsley to the bowl. These ingredients will infuse the salad with a delightful aroma and enhance the flavor profile.

Step 4: Make The Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until the salad is well coated. This step is crucial, as the dressing ties all the flavors together!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your Cucumber Carrot Salad is now ready to be served! Enjoy it fresh, or let it chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Cucumber Carrot Salad contains roughly:

• Calories: 80
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 4g

This salad is also high in Vitamin A and C, showcasing the array of benefits from consuming raw vegetables.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re aiming for healthier options, consider these substitutions:

• Swap olive oil with a light yogurt dressing to lower fat content.
• Add quinoa or chickpeas for a protein boost, making the salad suitable for a main dish.
• For a low-sodium option, reduce or omit the salt and replace it with herbs.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile Cucumber Carrot Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or can serve as a main dish if you add beans and grains. Present it in a colorful bowl with edible flowers for a stunning table display.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overdoing the Dressing: Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with less and add according to taste.
2. Choosing the Wrong Cucumbers: Avoid using waxy cucumbers; opt for organic or English varieties for the best flavor.
3. Not Chilling the Salad: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for a while enhances the flavors, so don’t skip this step!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

For optimal freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 2-3 days. If prepping ahead, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

Conclusion

Creating a Cucumber Carrot Salad is a swift and rewarding cooking experience, perfect for any occasion. Packed with nutrients and flavors, it’s a dish that not only satisfies but also promotes wellness. Are you ready to whip up this colorful dish? Try it today, share your feedback, and discover more juicy recipes on our blog!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Store the dressing separately to keep the vegetables crisp.

Q2: Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

Q3: Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep as it stays fresh for a couple of days in the fridge, making it a convenient option for busy weeks.

Now that you know all there is to making this delightful Cucumber Carrot Salad, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get started! Your taste buds will thank you!

Cucumber Carrot Salad

A refreshing and nutritious salad combining crisp cucumbers, sweet carrots, and tangy red onion, perfect for a quick meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine Vegetarian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 80 kcal

Ingredients

  

Vegetables

• 2 large cucumbers (preferably English or Persian for their thin skin) Avoid waxy cucumbers for best flavor.
• 2 large carrots (try using rainbow carrots for extra color!) Peel if desired.
• 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped) Adds a bit of tang.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped) For added freshness.

Dressing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a different flavor) Can substitute with light yogurt dressing for lower fat.
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white wine or apple cider work well)
• to taste salt and pepper Add according to taste.

Optional Additions

• to taste crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts For added richness and texture.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Wash the cucumbers and carrots under running water.
• Peel the carrots if desired, then chop the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and julienne the carrots.

Combine Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped cucumbers and julienned carrots. Toss them gently to combine.

Add Aromatics

• Add the finely chopped red onion and fresh parsley to the bowl and mix well.

Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Dress the Salad

• Drizzle the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss everything together until well coated.

Serve

• Your Cucumber Carrot Salad is now ready to be served! Enjoy it fresh or let it chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

Notes

For optimal freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 2-3 days. If prepping ahead, keep the dressing separate until serving to avoid sogginess.

Keyword Carrot Salad, Cucumber salad, Fresh Vegetables, Healthy Salad, Quick Recipes

Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 contact@dailypan.com • Pinterest