Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4
Introduction
Creamy cucumber carrot salad recipe with red onion and sesame seed dressing is a crisp, refreshing side dish loaded with vibrant vegetables and tossed in a rich, tangy dressing. Fresh cucumbers, sweet carrots, and thin slices of red onion are coated in a creamy sesame-infused sauce that delivers the perfect balance of flavor and texture. This easy salad is ideal for summer lunches, picnics, potlucks, or as a healthy side for grilled meats and seafood. Quick to prepare and wonderfully refreshing, this colorful salad is both satisfying and packed with fresh flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (400 g)
- 2 medium carrots, shredded (150 g)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (40 g)
- 2 green onions, sliced (20 g)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (10 g)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, parsley, or cilantro, chopped (5 g)
For the Sesame Seed Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (120 ml)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (15 ml)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon honey (5 ml)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (5 ml)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion, shred the carrots, and slice the green onions. Place everything in a large bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine the salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers, carrots, and onions. Toss gently until all the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Add the finishing touches: Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and chopped herbs over the salad for extra flavor and freshness.
- Chill: Refrigerate the salad for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the dressing to become even more refreshing.
- Serve: Stir gently before serving and enjoy chilled as a light side dish or healthy snack.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. It can be prepared several hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q2: Can I substitute sour cream for Greek yogurt?
Absolutely. Sour cream creates a richer dressing while maintaining a creamy texture.
Q3: What dishes pair well with this creamy cucumber carrot salad recipe with red onion and sesame seed dressing?
It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, roasted vegetables, and Asian-inspired meals.
