Cucumber Carrot Salad

Name: Cucumber Carrot Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cucumber, diced; 1 cup carrots, shredded; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Refresh your palate with this vibrant Cucumber Carrot Salad recipe. Bursting with crisp cucumbers, crunchy carrots, and a zesty dressing, this salad is not only a delicious side dish but also a perfect addition to any meal. Easy to prepare, it's ideal for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch. Enjoy a healthy and satisfying boost of nutrients with every bite!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-11-27T16:38:18.537Z

This vibrant salad is perfect for summer dining.

A Perfect Summer Side Dish

When the warm weather hits, finding refreshing and light meals becomes a priority. This Cucumber Carrot Salad is the ideal side dish for any summer gathering. Crisp cucumbers and bright carrots not only offer a pop of color but also provide a satisfying crunch that complements a variety of main dishes. Whether you're serving grilled chicken, burgers, or vegetarian options, this salad enhances your meal with its vibrant flavors.

Moreover, preparing this salad takes mere minutes, making it an excellent choice for last-minute barbecue invitations. You can easily whip it up before heading out, ensuring you contribute a healthy and delicious dish to the table. With its balance of flavors and textures, it's bound to be a hit among your guests.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

Both cucumbers and carrots boast numerous health benefits that make this salad not just tasty, but nutritious as well. Cucumbers provide hydration due to their high water content, and they are low in calories, making them fantastic for weight management. They also contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body.

Carrots, on the other hand, are a great source of beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for eye health and immune function. Including fresh vegetables like these in your diet can contribute significantly to your overall health, helping you feel your best all summer long.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the best aspects of this Cucumber Carrot Salad is how easily it can be customized to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Consider adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocados for extra flavor and nutrition. You can even incorporate different herbs such as mint or dill to give a unique twist to the dressing.

For those looking for a protein boost, chickpeas or grilled chicken can easily be added, transforming the salad into a more substantial meal. The dressing can also be modified; try using lemon juice for a brighter flavor or swap honey for maple syrup for a vegan version. The flexibility of this recipe makes it suitable for a wide array of occasions.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cucumber, diced
1 cup carrots, shredded
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match the ingredients according to your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, red onion, and parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Enjoy your fresh and healthy salad!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers after preparing this delightful salad, storing them properly is essential to maintain freshness. Transfer the salad to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within 2-3 days to enjoy the crispness of the vegetables and the vibrancy of the dressing.

To prevent the salad from becoming soggy, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it only when you're ready to eat. This keeps the cucumbers and carrots crisp, ensuring each bite is just as satisfying as the first.

Pairing Suggestions

This Cucumber Carrot Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a light lunch, serve it alongside a piece of grilled fish or a wrap filled with your favorite fillings. It complements hearty meals as well, adding a refreshing contrast to rich flavors like creamy pasta or BBQ ribs.

If you're planning a picnic or potluck, consider accompanying the salad with whole-grain rolls or a selection of cheeses. This way, you can create a balanced and visually appealing spread that invites everyone to indulge in healthy eating.

Seasonal Variations

As seasons change, so can your Cucumber Carrot Salad! In the fall, add roasted butternut squash for a hint of sweetness and a rich texture. In winter, include shredded cabbage for an extra crunch and some sliced apples for a touch of tartness. In spring, experiment with snap peas or radishes for additional color and a burst of freshness.

These seasonal variations not only keep the recipe exciting but also allow you to take advantage of the freshest local produce. Adapting the salad according to the season makes it a year-round staple in your kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be prepared a few hours in advance, just keep it refrigerated.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, radishes, or any of your favorite vegetables.