Why You’ll Love Carrot and Cucumber Salad Recipe
This salad comes together in just 15 minutes and delivers a perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, sweetness, and tanginess. The spiralized vegetables create a fun noodle-like texture, while the peanut dressing adds richness and depth. It’s refreshing, easy to customize, and naturally packed with fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
5 medium carrots, spiralized
1 large cucumber, spiralized
¼ cup crushed peanuts
¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
3 green onions, thinly sliced
¼ cup peanut butter
1 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 lime, juiced
1 tsp sesame seeds
¼ cup water, plus more if needed
Directions
Peel or spiralize the carrots and cucumber into noodle-like strands. Pat the cucumber dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, maple syrup, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame seeds, and water until smooth and pourable. Add additional water if needed to thin the dressing to your preferred consistency.
Place the carrot and cucumber noodles into a large mixing bowl.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated.
Top with crushed peanuts, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions before serving.
Serve immediately for the best crunch, or chill briefly to allow the flavors to meld together.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
Add shredded cabbage or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.
Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Add chilli flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Swap cilantro for fresh mint or basil for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
The vegetables may release moisture over time, so toss the salad again before serving.
This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
For the freshest texture, store the dressing separately and combine just before serving if making ahead.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
Do I need a spiralizer?
No, you can use a vegetable peeler or julienne cutter if you do not have a spiralizer.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter works well and adds extra texture.
Is this salad vegan?
Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based.
What type of cucumber works best?
English or continental cucumbers work best because they contain fewer seeds and less water.
Can I make the dressing thinner?
Yes, simply whisk in extra water until it reaches your desired consistency.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
Tamari or coconut aminos are great alternatives.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or edamame pair very well with the flavors.
How do I keep the cucumber from getting watery?
Pat the cucumber dry before mixing and avoid letting the salad sit too long before serving.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can work in a pinch.
Conclusion
Carrot and Cucumber Salad is a quick, refreshing dish filled with crisp vegetables and coated in a creamy peanut dressing. With its bright flavors, crunchy toppings, and easy preparation, this salad is a delicious option for healthy lunches, light dinners, or vibrant side dishes.
