Dessert

Cucumber Carrot Salad with Spicy Sesame Dressing Recipe

Name: Cucumber Carrot Salad with Spicy Sesame Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Asian Inspired
Ingredients: 1 large cucumber; 2 large carrots; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes); 1 tsp soy sauce; ½ tsp sugar (or substitute with maple syrup or agave)

ByNaomi Fletcher January 28, 2026January 28, 2026

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Introduction

This cucumber carrot salad is a refreshing and crisp dish that comes together in just 10 minutes. Featuring julienned vegetables tossed in a spicy, savory dressing with sesame seeds, it’s perfect for a quick side or light meal. Beginners will find it especially easy to master.

A white plate holds a single piled serving of spiralized orange carrot noodles mixed with thin green zucchini strips. The noodles are coated lightly in a glossy sauce and sprinkled all over with white sesame seeds and chopped fresh green herbs, likely parsley or cilantro. The texture looks moist but crisp, with the carrot layers forming the base and the zucchini and herb pieces distributed throughout. The scene is set against a soft, out-of-focus warm-toned background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 large cucumber
2 large carrots
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
1 tsp soy sauce
½ tsp sugar (or substitute with maple syrup or agave)

Instructions

Step 1: Wash and dry the cucumber and carrots. Julienne both vegetables into thin strips using a sharp knife or a julienne peeler. Place the strips in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sugar until fully combined.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the julienned cucumbers and carrots. Add the minced garlic and chopped parsley. Toss everything until the vegetables are evenly coated.
Step 4: Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the salad and give it a final toss. Serve immediately for a crisp texture, or let it sit for 10–15 minutes for flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

For a milder spice, reduce the gochugaru or replace with paprika.
Try substituting parsley with fresh cilantro or mint for a different flavor profile.
Add toasted peanuts or cashews for extra crunch and protein.
If you don’t have a julienne peeler, a regular vegetable peeler can create thin ribbons instead.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be gently reheated to room temperature if preferred.