There’s something about summer afternoons that makes me crave crisp, refreshing bites ,the kind that don’t ask for a stove or even a microwave. This cucumber and carrot salad is my go-to when I want something light, crunchy, and just a little zippy.
I remember tossing this together one day when it was too hot to cook and the kids were already running wild in the sprinkler. I had cucumbers from the neighbor’s garden and some carrots in the fridge , a little chopping, a splash of dressing, and it turned into a dish everyone kept coming back for.
Whether you’re packing a picnic, prepping lunchboxes, or just need a veggie side without turning on the heat, this one’s a winner.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Smart Idea Behind Cucumber and Carrot Salad
The magic of a cucumber and carrot salad lies in its simplicity , two humble veggies that come together to make something incredibly refreshing. This combo is found in kitchens around the world, from quick Asian-inspired slaws to Mediterranean mezze platters. It’s one of those dishes that feels just right whether you’re eating outdoors or sneaking a crunchy bite from the fridge late at night.
Fact: Cucumbers are about 95% water, making them naturally hydrating , perfect for hot days or when you need a light reset.
Jena’s Tip: Use a julienne peeler or spiralizer to turn carrots and cucumbers into noodle-like ribbons. It makes the salad feel extra fun and fancy (and kids are more likely to gobble it up!).
How to Make Cucumber and Carrot Salad
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2–4 (as a side)
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, peeled (if you like) and julienned or thinly sliced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and julienned or shredded
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for an umami boost)
- Pinch of salt
- Cracked black pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for garnish
- Fresh herbs (like cilantro or mint), optional
Instructions
- Wash and prep your cucumbers and carrots. Julienne them for a slaw-style salad, or use a veggie peeler for soft ribbons.
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, oil, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the cucumbers and carrots in a large bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the veggies and toss gently to coat.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes if you have time — the flavors meld beautifully!
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or herbs before serving.
Notes & Variations
- No sesame oil? Use olive oil and add a dash of toasted sesame seeds for flavor.
- Add crunch: Thinly sliced radishes or red cabbage make a colorful, crispy addition.
- Want a kick? A splash of chili oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes takes it up a notch.
Quick Ingredient Overview
Here’s a simple look at what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cucumber | Hydrating, refreshing base |
| Carrot | Crunch and color |
| Vinegar or lemon | Tangy brightness |
| Oil | Richness and balance |
| Honey or syrup | Subtle sweetness |
| Soy sauce (opt.) | Savory depth |
| Garnishes | Flavor + texture boost |
Cucumber and Carrot Salad: Crunchy, Colorful, and No-Cook Easy
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This cucumber and carrot salad is crisp, colorful, and totally no-cook. A refreshing side dish perfect for warm days or busy nights.
Ingredients
2 medium cucumbers, peeled and julienned
2 large carrots, peeled and julienned
2 tbsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
1 tbsp sesame oil or olive oil
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp soy sauce (optional)
Pinch of salt
Cracked black pepper to taste
Sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for garnish
Fresh herbs (like cilantro or mint), optional
Instructions
1. Wash and prep cucumbers and carrots. Julienne or use a veggie peeler.
2. Whisk together vinegar, oil, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss cucumbers and carrots in a large bowl. Add dressing.
4. Let sit for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
5. Top with sesame seeds or herbs before serving.
Notes
No sesame oil? Use olive oil with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Add crunch with radishes or red cabbage.
For a kick, try a splash of chili oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fresh
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cucumber and carrot salad, no-cook salad, crunchy veggie side
Benefits or Mistakes to Avoid
This salad may be simple, but a few thoughtful touches can really make it shine ,or save it from becoming soggy and sad.
Want another no-cook side that’s just as easy? Try my Raw carrot Salad ,it’s bright, sweet, and ready in minutes.
Benefits
- Super hydrating and nourishing : cucumbers and carrots bring a fresh crunch plus plenty of water and goodness.
- No-cook and low mess: Everything comes together in one bowl ,no stove, oven, or microwave required.
- Make-ahead friendly: The flavors get better as they mingle in the fridge, so you can prep this earlier in the day.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overdressing: A little dressing goes a long way. Too much and your veggies may go limp.
- Skipping salt: A pinch of salt helps draw out moisture and amplify flavor ,don’t skip it!
- Cutting veggies too thick: Thin slices or julienned strips soak up the dressing better and make for a prettier plate.
FAQ: Cucumber and Carrot Salad
Are carrot and cucumber a good combination?
Absolutely! Carrot and cucumber are a perfect match — one’s crisp and sweet, the other’s cool and hydrating. Together, they make a refreshing, crunchy base for all kinds of dressings, from tangy to creamy.
How to make salad with cucumber and carrot?
It’s super easy. Just slice or shred your cucumbers and carrots, then toss them with a simple dressing — like vinegar, a bit of oil, honey, and a pinch of salt. You can get creative with garnishes like sesame seeds or herbs. Check the recipe above for my exact steps!
Does eating cucumber and carrot salad make any difference in the body?
Yes! Both are loaded with vitamins and water content. This salad helps with hydration, digestion, and gives a light nutrient boost without weighing you down. It’s a great choice if you’re trying to eat fresh and feel good.
How do you make creamy cucumber and carrot salad?
To make it creamy, just swap the vinaigrette for a dressing made with Greek yogurt or sour cream, a squeeze of lemon, and maybe a bit of garlic or dill. It gives the cucumber and carrot salad a whole new cozy twist , perfect for potlucks or as a sandwich side.
Conclusion: Try This Cucumber and Carrot Salad Today
This cucumber and carrot salad is one of those simple wins that feels like a little gift on a busy day, crunchy, colorful, and completely no-cook. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, looking for a light lunch side, or just need something fresh in a flash, this one’s got your back.
I’d love to know how you serve it , do you add a spicy kick? Go creamy? Toss in other veggies?
Tell me in the comments below , and let’s swap salad stories!
