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Home » Easy Vegetarian Gluten Free Recipes

Published: Feb 1, 2024 by Padma Kumar

Carrots Cucumber Salad Recipe: Light and Crunchy

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Salads aren't only for summer! This light, crunchy, and easy carrots cucumber salad with a flavorful oil-free dressing is my go-to when I don't want to cook but still want a delicious meal. Perfect on its own or as a side dish for any main course, this allergen free salad is a great way to add more veggies to your diet.

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If you've been following my recipes for a while, you know by now that I love cucumbers. I use them a lot in salads and raitas. For instance, this beetroot cucumber salad is one of my favorites, and I can't have an Indian meal in my home without this cucumber raita.

My mom's signature cucumber salad recipe is dosakaya pachadi. She makes it with regular cucumbers, but I use English cucumbers instead. This has been my favorite salad since childhood.

Carrot and cucumber are a match made in heaven, in my opinion! They have a sweet crunch and a juicy crispness that are just perfect!

Carrots cucumber salad is my all-time favorite, though I also enjoy carrot and chia seed salad and carrot kosambari and make them often.

This post includes helpful tips, but if you're in a hurry, use the "Jump to Recipe" or section links to skip ahead.

Jump to:
  • Allergens free labels
  • Why this carrot and cucumber salad
  • Ingredients
  • Instructions
  • Notes and variations
  • Storage
  • FAQ
  • 📖 Recipe
  • Comments

Allergens free labels

This salad is light and crunchy and has a simple oil-free dressing. It is naturally vegan and free of:

  • gluten
  • nuts
  • soy

To make it grain-free, swap the rice vinegar with regular or apple cider vinegar. 

If you do not want seeds in your recipe, you can omit the sesame seeds, but they add a nice crunch and balance to the salad. 

To make it allium free, just skip the onions.

Spicy cucumber carrot salad is being served in a bowl. Next to the bowl is some more of the salad in another bowl.

Why this carrot and cucumber salad

This is an easy one to answer!

  • Simple and easy to make, this salad is ready in less than 20 minutes.
  • No cooking required, it is ideal for those busy days when time is limited.
  • It is colorful, fragrant, and has lovely textures.
  • It uses simple ingredients that you already have in your pantry.
  • With only about 119 calories per serving, it is healthy, and light and perfect for hot summer days. Check the nutrition chart at the end of the recipe card for more details.
  • It is free of many allergens and suitable for you if you have dietary preferences. See the section above for more information.

What are the benefits of raw carrot and cucumber salad?

A raw salad with carrots and cucumber has many benefits. First of all, as we eat with our eyes first, the bright color of the raw veggies makes the salad look gorgeous!

The crunchy carrots, crisp cucumber, and sharp red onions balance well with each other. The fresh herbs and the dressing adds a lovely freshness to the salad. The toasted sesame seeds add more nutrition and a nutty flavor to the dish.

This simple carrot and cucumber salad is low in calories and high in fiber (check the nutrition chart at the end of the recipe card for more details). As we know, carrots are super healthy and on hot days cool cucumbers provide hydration, among other health benefits.

Ingredients

This easy salad recipe requires under 10 ingredients, that's it!

See the recipe card for quantities.

Ingredients such as red onion, toasted sesame seeds, carrots, green cucumber, and some fresh cilantro are placed on a light colored backdrop.
  • Cucumbers: There are so many different kinds of cucumbers out there! I use the regular, large English cucumbers. You can also use Persian cucumber, also known as baby cucumber, if you like.
  • Carrots: I used red carrots because they are in season now. You can use the regular orange or any carrots that you have.
  • Salt and sugar: I use Himalayan pink salt and demerara sugar.
  • Onion: I use red onion for its color and taste. You can use any onion of your choice.
  • Red pepper flakes: I love the color contrast and the gentle heat that they add to the salad. You can replace them with freshly cracked black pepper or some finely chopped chili peppers. 
  • Rice wine vinegar: If you don't have this, you can use red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar instead. Want to skip vinegar altogether? See the section below for alternative dressing ingredients.
  • Fresh herbs: I use cilantro. Not a fan of it? See the section below for other options.
  • Sesames seeds: I toast them in a pan until they are aromatic.

If you have any questions regarding these ingredients, feel free to ask in the comments section below and I will try my best to answer them for you.

Instructions

You can make this crunchy carrot and cucumber salad in just 3 simple steps and less than 20 minutes. Slicing the fresh veggies takes the most time. If you have a handy tool like a food processor or julienne peeler, you can make the salad much faster.

Also see the video at the end of the recipe card below.

Step 1: Prepare the veggies

Wash and thinly slice the carrots and cucumber. Peel the carrots and cucumber only if necessary.

Wash, peel and thinly slice the onion.

Wash the cilantro leaves and pat them dry on a kitchen or paper towels.

Thinly slices carrots, cucumbers, red onions and some fresh cilantro are all placed in a round plate.

Note: You can make carrot ribbons instead of slicing them. You can also cut the veggies into long strips, if that is what you prefer.

Step 2: Make the dressing.

This carrots cucumber salad dressing has just 4 ingredients: rice wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and sugar.

Add them to a bowl or a glass jar and mix well until the salt and sugar are dissolved. Keep aside.

A glass jar with some red pepper flakes, salt and other ingredients are placed on a round wooden block.

Step 3: Assemble the salad.

Add the sliced carrots, onion and cucumber slices, and cilantro leaves to a mixing bowl.

Thinly sliced cucumbers, carrots, and red onion are placed in a wide bowl. Some chopped fresh cilantro is placed on top of the sliced veggies.

Pour the dressing and mix well so that it coats all the vegetables.

Simple carrot and cucumber salad with slivers of red onion and some red pepper flakes is served in a wide serving bowl.

Garnish with sesame seeds and more cilantro.

The salad is now ready to be served, however, if you have time let it rest for 5 minutes or so. This will allow the flavors to mingle.

Some cucumber salad with carrots and onions is garnished with toasted sesame seeds.

Notes and variations

This salad is so simple that nothing can hide! Fresh ingredients are key for a fresh flavor and crunchy textures.

Not a fan of cilantro? Swap with any fresh herbs of your choice - parsley, mint, chives, or dill will work well. 

Variations: You can amp up this simple crunchy cucumber carrot salad, if you like, to add more flavors, textures, and nutrition. Here are some ideas:

  • Add leafy greens. Some arugula (rocket leaves) or micro greens of your choice will make the salad more colorful and healthy.
  • Make a dressing without vinegar. Use lemon juice or lime juice instead of vinegar to make a sweet and tangy lemon dressing.
  • Make a vinaigrette dressing. If you don't mind adding oil to the recipe, add olive oil to the dressing and shake well. Add some orange juice for an interesting flavor, as in this ABC salad recipe.
  • Add Asian flavors. The toasted sesame seeds add some Asian flavor, but you can enhance it by adding some chopped scallions (spring onions), some soy sauce, and a few drops of sesame oil to the dressing.

Any doubts or questions? Feel free to ask via the comments below. I will try my best to answer them for you. - Padma

A simple carrot and cucumber salad is served in a wide green colored bowl. Next to the bowl, on the table, are a pair of chopsticks and some garnishes.

Storage

This crunchy salad tastes best when fresh. The vegetables should not lose their crispiness.

If you want to prep ahead, slice the vegetables and store them in separate, airtight containers in the fridge. Make the dressing and store it separately too.

FAQ

Can you eat cucumbers and carrots together?

Carrots and cucumbers are a great combination. They are both healthy and nutritious vegetables that you can eat cooked or raw. They are also easy to like because they taste sweet. A simple carrot and cucumber salad is a great way to add more veggies to your diet.

Can I make this salad a day before?

This cucumber carrot salad is best when fresh. The vegetables should not lose their crunchiness. To save time, you can prep ahead. Cut the veggies and store them in separate, airtight containers in the fridge. You can also make the dressing ahead and store in the fridge.

Which cucumbers to use for carrot cucumber salad?

The best cucumber to use for carrot and cucumber salad are the English cucumbers. They taste sweet, are juicy and crunchy. They do not have seeds and have thin skin and therefore don't have to be peeled.
You can also use Persian cucumbers or Japanese cucumbers, if that is what you have.

How to cut carrot and cucumber for salad?

Slice the carrots and cucumbers thinly for a salad. You can also cut them into long strips or ribbons. Thinly sliced vegetables will absorb the dressing flavors better.

If you have made this carrots cucumber salad, please take a moment to leave a comment and a rating below. This will make me super happy and motivate me to create more good content for you! You can also engage with me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram xx Padma

📖 Recipe

Salad of carrots and cucumber and red onions is served in a bowl. The salad has some toasted sesame seeds and red pepper flakes garnish.
Padma Kumar

Carrots Cucumber Salad Recipe: Light and Crunchy

5 from 42 votes
You've come to the right place if you're looking for a refreshing and healthy salad! This super simple carrot and cucumber salad with red onions and cilantro is full of flavor and ready in less than 20 minutes.
This salad is light and crunchy, with a simple, oil-free dressing that is well balanced.
The carrots add sweetness, the cucumbers add juiciness, the onions add sharpness, and the cilantro adds freshness. The toasted sesame seeds add a nutty touch that complements the salad perfectly. You can enjoy this salad on its own or as a side dish.
Also see the video below.
Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Rest time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Servings: 2
Course: Salad
Cuisine: World
Calories: 119

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Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Video Notes

Ingredients  

  • 2 medium sized (~180g) carrots
  • 1 large (~300g) cucumber
  • 1 medium sized (~60g) onion
  • 15-20 cilantro (coriander) leaves, see notes
Dressing
  • 3 teaspoons rice wine vinegar, see notes
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons red pepper flakes, see notes
  • ¾ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • ¾ teaspoon sugar, any type will do
To finish off
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
  • chopped cilantro

Equipment

  • 1 salad mixing bowl
  • 1 bowl or glass jar, for making the dressing
  • 1 mixing spoon

Instructions
 

Prepare the veggies
  • Wash and thinly slice the carrots and cucumber. Peel the carrots and cucumber only if necessary.
  • Wash, peel and thinly slice the onion.
  • Wash the cilantro leaves and pat them dry on a kitchen towel.
Make the dressing
  • To a bowl or a glass jar, add the rice wine vinegar, pepper flakes, salt, and sugar. Mix well until the salt and sugar are dissolved. Keep aside.
    3 teaspoons rice wine vinegar, 1 and ½ teaspoons red pepper flakes, ¾ teaspoon salt, ¾ teaspoon sugar
Assemble the salad
  • Place the sliced carrots, cucumber, onion, and cilantro leaves in the salad bowl.
    2 medium sized (~180g) carrots, 1 large (~300g) cucumber, 1 medium sized (~60g) onion, 15-20 cilantro (coriander) leaves
  • Pour the dressing and mix well so that it coats all the vegetables.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and more cilantro.
    1 and ½ teaspoons toasted sesame seeds, chopped cilantro
  • The salad is now ready to be served, however, if you have time let it rest for 5 minutes or so. This will allow the flavors to mingle.

Nutrition

Calories: 119kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 3.4g | Fat: 3.8g | Saturated Fat: 0.6g | Sodium: 962mg | Potassium: 589mg | Fiber: 4.7g | Sugar: 9.6g | Calcium: 128mg | Iron: 2mg
Disclosure

The nutritional information is calculated using an online calculator and is based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionists' advice. Changing the quantities and cooking technique will alter the nutritional calculations.

Video

YouTube video

Notes

Allergens Free Labels: This salad is free from gluten, nuts, and soy. This recipe does not have any added oil. 
Make it grain free: Swap the rice wine vinegar with apple cider or regular vinegar. 
Sesame seeds: These are optional, but they do add a lovely crunch and balance to the salad. 
Red pepper flakes: I love the color contrast as well as the gentle heat that these give to the dish. You can swap these with freshly cracked black pepper or some finely chopped chili peppers. 
Yield: The quantities that I have mentioned here are good for 2 people as a light lunch or for 1 very hungry person! 
Not a fan of cilantro? Swap with any fresh herb of your choice - parsley or mint, chives, or dill will work well. 
Sugar and salt: I use demerara sugar and Himalayan pink salt. Feel free to use whatever you usually use in your cooking.  
Scaling the recipe

Alternative quantities provided in the recipe card are for 1x only.

Allergens Disclaimer

Our content aims to be informative and educational, but it should not replace professional medical advice. Since manufacturing processes can vary and cross-contamination is possible, it's essential to verify product labels and allergen information. Make sure all ingredients align with your specific allergies. As readers, you bear the responsibility for ensuring allergen safety when buying or consuming foods.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Pradnya says

    June 05, 2024 at 12:26 pm

    5 stars
    Awesome!

    Reply
  2. Fiona Maclean says

    April 22, 2024 at 7:40 pm

    5 stars
    Such a beautifully colourful salad. And, one that will work all the year round too. Delicious and fresh!

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      April 24, 2024 at 2:04 pm

      I know right?!Thank you for your feedback.

      Reply
  3. Jacqueline Debono says

    April 18, 2024 at 7:28 pm

    5 stars
    I loved the addition of toasted sesame seeds. Really nice salad that went well with out roast chicken dinner.

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      April 18, 2024 at 11:03 pm

      Thank you Jacqueline. So happy that you liked it.

      Reply
  4. Stephanie says

    April 18, 2024 at 6:01 pm

    5 stars
    This salad leaves one feeling so healthy and satisfied. Loaded with crunchy veggies and a wonderfully seasoned dressing.

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      April 18, 2024 at 11:04 pm

      Thank you for your lovely feedback Stephanie.

      Reply
  5. Sonja says

    April 18, 2024 at 5:01 pm

    5 stars
    Such an easy and healthy salad! Just what I was looking for as a side dish. Loved the oil free dressing. Who needs oil, if you can have all the flavour without it.

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      April 18, 2024 at 11:05 pm

      Such a lovely feedback Sonja! So happy that you loved it.

      Reply
  6. Sharon says

    March 19, 2024 at 1:43 am

    I love an easy, tasty side salad. Bring on the spring/summer veggies!!!

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      March 19, 2024 at 2:17 am

      absolutely 🙂

      Reply
  7. Christine says

    March 13, 2024 at 5:53 pm

    I tried this carrot and cucumber salad, and it was really easy to make! I'd love to try it with tomatoes next time.

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      March 13, 2024 at 7:10 pm

      So glad that you loved it Christine.Tomatoes sound like a great addition!

      Reply
  8. Tayler says

    February 06, 2024 at 6:49 am

    5 stars
    We had this salad with dinner tonight and it was wonderful! Light, fresh and super easy!

    Reply
  9. Kathryn says

    February 06, 2024 at 4:47 am

    5 stars
    This is such a simple yet delicious salad! We love this with any meal and it takes minutes to make. Love it!

    Reply
  10. Doanlyn says

    February 06, 2024 at 4:02 am

    5 stars
    What a lovely combo of flavors - we loved it! I'll be making it again soon. ❤️

    Reply
  11. Glenda says

    February 06, 2024 at 3:28 am

    5 stars
    So simple, but so delicious! It's perfect as a side, but I also love it for a light, refreshing lunch.. Delish!

    Reply
  12. Kathleen says

    February 06, 2024 at 2:48 am

    5 stars
    This light, fresh and fabulous salad makes a great lunch, snack or side dish.

    Reply
5 from 42 votes (32 ratings without comment)

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Hi, I'm Padma! I am a passionate cook and can cook through any mood! My cooking is all about simple, healthy meals made with fresh ingredients and with a lot of love. As a mum and an early childhood educator, I deeply care about raising healthy eaters.

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