A simple, light side for any Asian-inspired meal, this Carrot Cucumber Salad is made with refreshing cucumber and crunchy carrots tossed in a garlic honey soy sauce. Naturally hydrating, easy to make, and ready in minutes!
Why You'll Love this Carrot Cucumber Salad:
- Quick & Easy: This salad comes together in about 10 minutes with just a few simple ingredients.
- Light & Refreshing: With hydrating cucumbers and crunchy carrots, this recipe is light and refreshing enough for even the hottest of days.
- Naturally Vegetarian & Dairy-Free
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Key Ingredients:
- English Cucumber: Sliced thin. English cucumbers have less seeds and less moisture.
- Matchstick Carrots: Add crunch, color, and subtle sweetness.
- Garlic Honey Soy Dressing: A sweet and savory blend of soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic.
Dietary Swaps:
- This carrot cucumber salad is naturally dairy-free, low-carb, and vegetarian, and easy to adapt for most dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. (I always keep a bottle of Kikkoman's Gluten-Free Soy Sauce in the fridge!)
- Vegan: Swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.
Recipe Variations:
- Make is Spicy: With a drizzle of sriracha for kick.
- Sesame-Ginger: Add 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger and a splash of sesame oil to the dressing.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in chopped peanuts or cashews for extra crunch and texture.
- Make it a Light Meal: Serve this salad over rice with shrimp, salmon, or chicken for a light main dish.
How to Make Carrot Cucumber Salad:
- Prep the Veggies: Slice cucumbers very thin, pat dry with paper towels, and combine with matchstick carrots and green onions in a large bowl.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together soy sauce, honey, and garlic until smooth. Taste and adjust to preference.
- Toss & Finish: Pour dressing over the veggies, toss to coat, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve immediately or chill to let the flavors meld.
Tips for Success:
- Slice Cucumbers Thin: Paper thin slices absorb the dressing better while giving this salad a soft crunch.
Storage:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad will soften slightly but still taste delicious.
FAQs:
Yes! It's low in calories, hydrating, and packed with vitamins like A and C from carrots and cucumbers.
You can, but English cucumbers have fewer seeds and less water, which helps keep the salad crisp and less watery. If using regular cucumbers, use a spoon to scoop out the extra seeds.
Simply swap the honey in the dressing for a vegan substitute, such as maple or agave syrup.
Yes! Thinly sliced bell peppers, radishes, or snap peas would add extra crunch and color.
More Cucumber Salads You Will Love:
- Chickpea Cucumber Feta Salad with Dill Yogurt Dressing
- Easy Cucumber Pasta Salad with Feta and Dill
- Gluten-Free Cucumber & Dill Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Recipe
Carrot Cucumber Salad with Garlic Honey Soy Sauce
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 cups sliced English cucumber
- 1 cup matchstick carrots
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
For the Garlic Honey Soy Dressing:
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Instructions
- Prepare vegetables: Slice cucumbers and carrots thinly. Pat cucumbers dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Make dressing: Whisk together soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Toss salad: In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, carrots, and green onions. Pour dressing over and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately or chill for later.
Notes
- This salad is naturally vegetarian and dairy-free.
- Gluten-Free: swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative such as gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Vegan: swap the honey in the dressing for maple or agave syrup.
- Nutritional information is an estimate only and will vary according to specific ingredients and amounts used.
Nutrition
Tried This Carrot Cucumber Salad? I'd love to hear how it turned out! ⭐ Please leave a star rating and review in the recipe card below. Your feedback helps others discover this ultra-flavorful, easy dish. Enjoy, and happy cooking! Follow me on Instagram and Subscribe to my newsletter more delicious recipes, travel inspiration, and behind-the-scenes content.
Must Love Garlic says
Very very easy and simple to make. Makes a great quick Asian-inspired side dish.