Name: Easy Crunchy Asian Cucumber Carrot Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 Persian cucumbers, julienned into thin, uniform strips; 2 medium carrots, julienned or cut into thin matchsticks; 2 tablespoons sesame oil, for a nutty, rich base; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, or lemon juice for brightness; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, adds subtle tang; 1 tablespoon soy sauce, or tamari for gluten-free; 1 teaspoon honey, for a touch of sweetness; 1 clove garlic, pressed or minced; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes, adjust to your preferred spice level; 1 teaspoon mixed sesame seeds, black and white for garnish and crunch; Optional Ingredients, fresh cilantro chopped, sliced green onions, crushed peanuts or cashews, red bell pepper julienned

Description

This vibrant Asian cucumber carrot salad features julienned fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty sesame-lime dressing with a hint of spice and nutty sesame seeds. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, this crunchy, refreshing side comes together in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

2 Persian cucumbers, julienned into thin, uniform strips
2 medium carrots, julienned or cut into thin matchsticks
2 tablespoons sesame oil, for a nutty, rich base
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, or lemon juice for brightness
1 teaspoon rice vinegar, adds subtle tang
1 tablespoon soy sauce, or tamari for gluten-free
1 teaspoon honey, for a touch of sweetness
1 clove garlic, pressed or minced
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes, adjust to your preferred spice level
1 teaspoon mixed sesame seeds, black and white for garnish and crunch
Optional Ingredients, fresh cilantro chopped, sliced green onions, crushed peanuts or cashews, red bell pepper julienned

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Instructions

Julienne the Cucumbers: Use a julienne peeler, mandoline, or sharp knife to cut the Persian cucumbers into thin, uniform strips about 1/8 inch thick. Persian cucumbers work best because they have fewer seeds and a crisp texture that holds up well.
Julienne the Carrots: Repeat the same process with the medium carrots, creating thin matchstick-like pieces that match the cucumber size for even texture throughout.
Pat Dry: Place both the cucumbers and carrots in a clean kitchen towel and pat gently to remove excess moisture, which helps the vegetables stay crisp and allows the dressing to coat evenly.
Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, fresh lime juice, pressed garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, chili flakes, and sesame seeds until well combined and emulsified, about 1 minute.
Combine Vegetables: Transfer the julienned cucumbers and carrots to a serving bowl or individual plates.
Add Dressing: Pour the sesame-lime dressing evenly over the vegetables, about 2-3 minutes before serving for optimal flavor absorption.
Toss Gently: Using two forks or salad tongs, toss the vegetables gently to coat all the pieces evenly without breaking them apart, taking about 1-2 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Top with extra sesame seeds, fresh cilantro if using, and a pinch of additional chili flakes, then serve immediately while the vegetables are at their crunchiest.

Prep Time: 15 minutes