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Ellie Cresswell

Sesame Snap Carrot & Cucumber Salad

This one’s all about crunch, colour, and a little kick to keep things interesting. Crisp ribbons of cucumber and sweet, snappy carrot come together in a bowl that feels fresh, bright, and just a bit addictive
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 85
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large cucumber cut into fine ribbons or thin matchsticks
  • 2 large carrots shredded or julienned for that perfect crunch
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced nice and fine
For the dressing
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean red chilli flakes)
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp sugar or maple syrup,
Optional extras
  • Extra carrot ribbons
  • Sliced green onions
  • A handful of chopped roasted peanuts or cashews

Method
 

  1. Start by washing and drying your cucumber and carrots. Slice or shred them into fine, even strips — this is where all that satisfying crunch begins.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sugar until the dressing looks smooth and slightly glossy.
  3. Add the cucumber, carrot, fresh herbs, and garlic to a large bowl. Give it a quick toss so everything’s nicely mixed.
  4. Pour the dressing over the vegetables, making sure you get every last drop in there.
  5. Toss everything together until the veggies are well coated and glistening.
  6. Sprinkle over the sesame seeds and give it one final toss for that nutty finish.
  7. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to soak up all those flavours — or dive straight in if you can’t wait.

Notes

Make it your own
  • Prep ahead like a pro: Keep the veggies and dressing separate and chilled for up to 24 hours. Toss together just before serving for that fresh, crisp bite.
  • Dial the heat up or down: Prefer it mellow? Use less gochugaru or swap in a light pinch of red pepper flakes. Want more kick? Add an extra sprinkle.
  • Turn it into a proper meal: Toss in chickpeas, grilled tofu, or juicy shrimp to make it more filling without losing that fresh, vibrant feel.