Recipe tips and options

  • Make ahead option – You can make this recipe ahead of time, just keep the dressing separate or it will get soggy. Simply toss the salad with the dressing 20-30 minutes before serving.
  • Change the texture – You can completely change the look and texture of this salad by peeling the cucumbers, shredding the carrots or even turning either of them into noodles with a spiralizer.
  • Crunchy substitutes for celery – If you’re looking for something different, try some chopped jicama, sliced radish or water chestnuts. Celery is our favorite since it’s so mild, but these other options tested well too.
  • Sweet & spicy – If you like this combination, add a little cayenne or red pepper flakes to the dressing. You may also need to add a little more maple syrup to balance things out.

Need more salad ideas? Browse all of our delicious salad recipes!

Loving this recipe? Be sure to check out our Asian-inspired cucumber salad and this apple walnut spinach salad.

Image of pouring salad dressing/sauce into the bowl of ingredients.

Serving suggestions to go with this salad

Since cucumbers are the ultimate fresh summer ingredient, this salad pairs great with any of our easy grilling recipes. Our favorite and one our most popular is grilling steak with our quick and easy steak marinade or with our easy grilled chicken drumsticks.

Close up overhead image of a bowl full of cucumber, carrots and celery with a sesame sauce and sesame seeds. Ingredients are all mixed up.

We hope you love this recipe as much as we do!

Don’t forget to leave a quick star rating and review below, we read every comment and truly appreciate your feedback. Also, be sure to browse the rest of our easy, delicious recipes to find some other favorites too!

Close up overhead image of a bowl full of cucumber, carrots and celery with a sesame sauce and sesame seeds. Ingredients are all mixed up.
5 from 5 ratings
Get the Recipe:

Light & Crunchy Cucumber Carrot Salad

Made with sliced cucumbers, matchstick carrots, celery and a tangy homemade dressing, you'll love this light & crunchy cucumber carrot salad. Ready in 10 minutes or less!

Ingredients

  • 2 English cucumbers, ends removed and sliced, (or 5-6 medium pickling cucumbers)
  • 2 medium carrots, matchstick cut
  • 4 celery ribs, sliced

For the dressing:

  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice, (can sub white or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tsp maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder

For topping:

  • sesame seeds

Instructions
 

  • Cut up the cucumbers, carrots and celery as noted and place them in a bowl.
  • Add the dressing ingredients to a small bowl or jar and whisk well.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to set.
  • Toss immediately before serving and top with sesame seeds if desired.

Last Step:

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Vertical split image with text overlay in the middle. Top image is a close up of the cucumber carrot salad all tossed together. Bottom image has the ingredients all separated out in the bowl before tossing.
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