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This Cucumber Carrot Salad is just what you crave on a sweltering day when turning on the oven feels impossible. The combination of crisp cucumbers and carrots delivers a seriously refreshing crunch while a bright homemade dressing ties it all together. It is the sort of dish that turns an ordinary weeknight dinner into something you actually look forward to.
I first fell in love with this crunchy salad during a family backyard cookout last July and now I keep the ingredients stocked all summer long for quick lunches and potlucks.
Ingredients
- Large carrots: choose ones that feel firm and heavy for their size juicy carrots shred easier and hold their shape
- English cucumber: this variety is seedless and sweeter so it will not water down your salad
- Red onion: finely chopped for pops of sharp flavor always pick onions with papery dry skins
- Fresh parsley: adds a burst of herby freshness flat leaf has the best flavor just make sure it looks bright and perky
- Olive oil: helps bind the dressing together a robust cold pressed oil brings the most flavor
- Lemon juice: lends bright acidity always use fresh lemon juice for best taste
- Honey or maple syrup: a splash of sweetness helps balance the tang select pure honey or real maple syrup for cleanest flavor
- Salt and pepper: essential for drawing out all the fresh flavors use sea salt and freshly cracked pepper for the biggest impact
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Use a mandolin or sharp knife to thinly slice the cucumber and julienne the carrots into matchsticks for even texture and crunch
- Mix the Salad Base:
- Combine the sliced cucumber carrots finely chopped red onion and chopped parsley in a large bowl making sure to separate any clumped vegetables for even distribution
- Whisk the Dressing:
- In a small bowl whisk the olive oil lemon juice honey or maple syrup salt and pepper until smooth and fully blended so the dressing tastes balanced and bright
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture using tongs or clean hands to toss gently until each piece is just coated do not overmix or it may get soggy
- Chill and Serve:
- Taste for seasoning then cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for thirty minutes to let flavors meld together serve straight from the fridge for best crunch
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Fresh parsley is my favorite ingredient here since it takes a supporting role and transforms the salad with its herbal fragrance I remember my daughter sneaking a pinch while we prepped and laughing at her green fingers
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days The salad may release extra liquid over time so just give it a quick toss before serving and drain off any excess for best texture
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out red onion for thinly sliced green onion or shallots if you prefer a milder bite Fresh cilantro can be used instead of parsley for a different herby note If you are out of honey or maple syrup try agave or leave it out for less sweetness
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a side with grilled chicken or salmon It also works tucked into pita sandwiches or on top of chickpea bowls For potlucks I usually double the recipe because it vanishes fast
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Cultural Context
This salad echoes the simple cold salads popular across Eastern Europe and the Middle East where crunchy veggies are dressed in tangy vinaigrettes It is a wonderful example of how a few humble ingredients can sing with the right balance
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How thinly should the cucumber and carrot be sliced?
For the best texture, use a mandolin or sharp knife to julienne carrots and thinly slice cucumbers. This ensures a pleasant crunch and even marinating.
- → Can I substitute maple syrup for honey?
Yes, both honey and maple syrup offer similar sweetness and work well with the lemon dressing. Choose according to your preference or dietary needs.
- → How long can this dish be stored in the refrigerator?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. The vegetables will soften but maintain their flavor. Best enjoyed fresh or within a few hours.
- → What herbs besides parsley can be added?
Fresh dill or cilantro are excellent alternatives to parsley, adding a different note of freshness to complement the salad.
- → Is it necessary to peel the cucumber?
If using English cucumber, peeling is optional due to its thin skin. For other varieties with tougher skin, peeling may be preferred.