Spiralized Cucumber & Carrot Sesame Salad
π Ingredients
π₯ For the Salad
- 2 large English cucumbers (or 4β5 Persian cucumbers)
- 2 large carrots, peeled
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
π₯£ For the Tangy Sesame Dressing
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- Β½ tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt & black pepper to taste
π©βπ³ Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables πͺ
β‘οΈ Wash the cucumbers and carrots thoroughly.
β‘οΈ Using a spiralizer, julienne peeler, or mandoline, turn the cucumbers and carrots into long thin ribbons or noodle-like strands.
β‘οΈ If the cucumbers seem watery, place them in a colander with a tiny pinch of salt for 5β10 minutes.
β‘οΈ Pat gently with paper towels to remove extra moisture for a crisp salad texture.
π‘ Leaving the cucumber skin on adds beautiful color and extra crunch!
Step 2: Make the Sesame Dressing π₯£
β‘οΈ In a small bowl or jar, combine:
- Rice vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Olive oil
- Soy sauce
- Ginger
- Garlic
β‘οΈ Whisk well until smooth and combined.
β‘οΈ Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
β¨ The dressing should taste tangy, savory, and slightly nutty.
Step 3: Toss Everything Together π₯’
β‘οΈ Add the cucumber and carrot ribbons to a large mixing bowl.
β‘οΈ Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
β‘οΈ Toss gently until every ribbon is lightly coated.
π‘ Use tongs for easy mixing without breaking the veggie strands.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve β¨
β‘οΈ Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh herbs over the top.
β‘οΈ Serve immediately for maximum crunch or chill for 10β15 minutes for deeper flavor.
π₯ Best enjoyed fresh and cold!
π Optional Add-Ins
Want to make it even more filling? Try adding:
- π₯ Crushed peanuts or cashews
- π« Edamame
- π Grilled chicken
- π€ Shrimp
- π³ Soft-boiled egg
- π Rice noodles
- πΆοΈ Chili flakes for heat
β Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
β‘οΈ Yes, but for the freshest texture, keep the dressing separate until serving. Cucumbers naturally release water over time.
Q: What can I use instead of sesame oil?
β‘οΈ Sesame oil gives the salad its signature flavor, but you can reduce the amount and replace part of it with olive oil if preferred.
Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
β‘οΈ Yes! Simply use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.
Q: How long does it stay fresh?
β‘οΈ It tastes best within 1 day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
π₯’ Serving Ideas
This refreshing sesame salad pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled salmon π
- Teriyaki chicken π
- Stir-fried rice π
- Dumplings π₯
- Asian-inspired noodle bowls π
Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite! π₯π₯β¨