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Healthy and colorful sesame cucumber carrot slaw in a serving bowl.

Vibrant Crunchy Sesame Cucumber Carrot Slaw

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Unleash a burst of fresh flavor and satisfying crunch with this quick and easy cucumber carrot salad. Thinly sliced cucumbers and shredded carrots come together in a symphony of textures, perfectly coated in a light, tangy, and subtly sweet sesame dressing. It’s a colorful, refreshing side dish that’s ideal for picnics, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, bringing a bright, zesty counterpoint to any main course. Prepare to fall in love with its irresistible crispness and umami-rich notes.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large cucumbers, peeled (optional) and thinly sliced or julienned
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and shredded or julienned
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, plus more for garnish
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and dry the cucumbers and carrots. If desired, peel the cucumbers before thinly slicing them into rounds or half-moons. For the carrots, peel them and then shred or julienne them using a mandoline or a sharp knife.
  2. Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
  3. Combine the salad: Add the prepared cucumbers and carrots to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated.
  4. Add sesame seeds and season: Stir in 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds. Taste the salad and add salt as needed. Remember that soy sauce is already salty.
  5. Chill and serve: For best results, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld. Garnish with additional toasted sesame seeds just before serving.

Notes

For extra crunch, add some chopped peanuts or cashews. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic and ginger. This salad can be made up to a day in advance, but it’s best enjoyed within a few hours for maximum crispness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

  • Author: Cook Reel ™
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Tossing
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Find it online: https://cookreel.com/zesty-sesame-cucumber-carrot-slaw/

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