Carrot and Cucumber Ribbon Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Carrot and Cucumber Ribbon Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm days or as a light side. The crisp textures combined with a tangy, slightly sweet dressing make it a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients
- 2 large carrots, peeled
- 1 large English cucumber
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare your tools by placing a vegetable peeler or mandoline on a clean cutting board.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined to create the dressing.
- Step 3: Place a large mixing bowl nearby to collect the vegetable ribbons.
- Step 4: Using the peeler, peel the carrots and cucumber lengthwise into long, thin ribbons and add them to the mixing bowl.
- Step 5: Gently toss the ribbons with the prepared dressing until they are lightly coated.
- Step 6: Sprinkle the chopped parsley and toasted sesame seeds over the salad and toss very gently once more.
- Step 7: Transfer the salad to a chilled platter and serve immediately for the best freshness and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the salad.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Swap honey for maple syrup to make the dressing vegan-friendly.
- Use a mandoline for uniform ribbons to enhance the salad’s presentation.
Storage
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Because the ribbons can soften with time, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If chilled, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to regain some texture. Avoid reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
It’s best to prepare this salad shortly before serving to keep the vegetable ribbons crisp and fresh. If you need to prepare ahead, store the vegetables and dressing separately and combine just before serving.
What can I substitute for sesame seeds?
If you don’t have sesame seeds, try toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar nutty crunch.
PrintCarrot and Cucumber Ribbon Salad Recipe
This vibrant Carrot and Cucumber Ribbon Salad is a refreshing, light dish perfect for warm days or as a crunchy side. Featuring thinly sliced ribbons of fresh carrots and English cucumber, tossed in a zesty lemon-honey dressing with hints of olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper, then finished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh parsley. Quick to prepare and full of texture and bright flavors, this salad is a healthy, visually appealing addition to any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large carrots, peeled
- 1 large English cucumber
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Garnish
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the tools: Position a vegetable peeler or mandoline blade on a clean cutting board to efficiently create vegetable ribbons.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, honey, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Create vegetable ribbons: Using the peeler or mandoline, peel the carrots and cucumber lengthwise into long, thin ribbons directly into a large mixing bowl to catch them easily.
- Toss with dressing: Gently toss the carrot and cucumber ribbons with the prepared dressing, ensuring they are lightly and evenly coated without bruising the delicate ribbons.
- Add finishing touches: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and toasted sesame seeds over the salad, then toss very gently a second time to distribute evenly without damaging the ribbons.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a chilled platter and serve immediately to enjoy maximum freshness and crisp texture.
Notes
- For best texture, slice vegetables just before serving to retain crisp freshness.
- Use a mandoline if available to achieve uniform, thin ribbons quickly and safely.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.
- To toast sesame seeds, dry roast them in a small skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant.
- This salad is best served fresh; avoid refrigerating for long periods to maintain crispness.
Keywords: carrot salad,cucumber salad,fresh vegetable salad,healthy salad,lemon dressing,light salad,sesame seeds,parsley garnish

