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Sesame Carrot Cucumber Salad

This salad features julienned carrots and sliced cucumbers tossed with a sesame oil-based dressing, resulting in a crunchy, fresh, and slightly nutty dish. The combination of textures and vibrant colors creates an appealing and quick-to-prepare side that highlights the flavors of fresh vegetables with toasted sesame seeds adding added aroma and crunch.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups carrots julienned
  • 2 cups cucumbers sliced thin
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds for sprinkling

Equipment

  • Vegetable peeler or julienne peeler
  • Mixing bowl
  • Toaster or skillet for sesame seeds

Method
 

  1. Start by peeling the carrots and slicing them into thin julienne strips using a vegetable peeler or julienne peeler. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Thinly slice the cucumbers, either with a knife or a mandoline, and add them to the bowl with the carrots. Toss gently to combine the colorful vegetables.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and salt until the dressing is smooth and slightly emulsified, releasing a fragrant aroma.
  4. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly, ensuring the bright colors are well-coated and slightly glazed.
  5. Heat a pan or toaster oven and lightly toast the sesame seeds until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma—this takes about 2-3 minutes. Shake or stir frequently to prevent burning.
  6. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds generously over the salad, adding crunch and aroma with each bite.
  7. Give the salad a final gentle toss to distribute the sesame seeds evenly and allow the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve the sesame carrot cucumber salad in bowls, enjoying its crisp texture, vibrant colors, and balanced tangy, nutty flavors.