Description
A refreshing and crisp Carrot and Cucumber Salad featuring shredded carrots and thinly sliced cucumber tossed in a tangy honey-lemon dressing, garnished with fresh parsley. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 medium cucumber
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Peel the Carrots: Peel the carrots using a vegetable peeler, removing all of the outer skin to prepare them for shredding.
- Grate Carrots: Grate the peeled carrots using a box grater or a food processor to create fine shreds for the salad base.
- Prepare Bowl: Place the grated carrots into a medium-sized mixing bowl, ready for adding more ingredients.
- Wash Cucumber: Wash the cucumber under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Trim Cucumber Ends: Cut off both ends of the cucumber using a knife.
- Halve Cucumber: Slice the cucumber lengthwise in half to expose the seeds inside.
- Remove Seeds: Use a spoon to scrape out the seeds from each cucumber half for a better texture.
- Slice Cucumber: Cut the cucumber into thin half-moon slices or thin matchstick-like pieces, depending on your preference.
- Add Cucumber to Bowl: Combine the sliced cucumber with the grated carrots in the mixing bowl.
- Mix Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well blended.
- Dress Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the carrot and cucumber mixture.
- Toss Salad: Gently toss with tongs or a large spoon to evenly coat all the vegetables with the dressing.
- Chop Parsley: Finely chop fresh parsley using a sharp knife to release its flavor.
- Add Parsley: Sprinkle the chopped parsley evenly over the salad.
- Final Toss: Give the salad one final gentle toss to mix the parsley throughout.
- Serve or Chill: Serve immediately for maximum freshness or refrigerate for about 15 minutes if you prefer it slightly chilled.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Use organic vegetables to enhance flavor and reduce pesticide intake.
- Salad can be prepared ahead but dress just before serving to maintain crispness.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Add nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch if desired.
