Carrot and Cucumber Salad
A crisp and refreshing salad made with shredded carrots and cool cucumber slices, tossed in a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette. The perfect light and healthy side dish for any meal, ready in just 10 minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the vegetables
Peel all 4 carrots and julienne them into thin, uniform strips, about 2-3 inches long. Slice the 1 English cucumber into thin half-moon shapes or julienne to match the carrots for a consistent texture.
Whisk the dressing
In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill, 0.5 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is emulsified.
TIPFor a slightly sweeter dressing, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the tartness of the lemon juice.Toss the salad
Add the prepared julienned carrots and sliced cucumber to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss the vegetables until they are evenly coated with the dressing. Ensure every piece is glistening and well-seasoned.
Serve immediately or chill
This vibrant carrot and cucumber salad is best served fresh. For enhanced flavor, you can cover and refrigerate it for at least 15-30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
TIPTo add a textural crunch, consider sprinkling toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts over the salad just before serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crunch, use a mandoline to slice the cucumber paper-thin.
- 2Don't dress the salad until you're ready to serve to prevent the cucumber from becoming watery.
- 3Feel free to swap dill with other fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or cilantro.
- 4For a slightly sweeter note, you can add 1/4 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the dressing.
- 5Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though it's best enjoyed fresh.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken or a can of drained chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.
quickQuick
Use a bag of pre-shredded carrots to save on prep time. The salad can be assembled in under 5 minutes.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Cut the cucumber into fun shapes with a small cookie cutter and reduce the amount of black pepper.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin A
Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A, essential for good vision and immune function.
Hydrating
Cucumbers have a high water content, which helps you stay hydrated and supports overall health.
Heart-Healthy Fats
The extra virgin olive oil in the dressing provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this salad is very healthy. It's packed with vitamins and fiber from the fresh vegetables and uses a light, heart-healthy olive oil dressing instead of creamy alternatives.
