A vibrant and refreshing dish, Zesty Carrot Salad combines crisp carrot ribbons with shallots and fresh cilantro, all brought together in a tangy sesame-soy dressing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required
Fresh and crisp: Made with raw carrots for a naturally crunchy texture

Flavor-packed: A bold mix of sesame oil, soy, and lemon for a zesty punch
Light and healthy: Low in calories but rich in nutrients
Diet-friendly: Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free

Great for meal prep: Holds up well in the fridge and gets better with time
Colorful and appealing: Bright orange ribbons and green herbs make a beautiful presentation
Customizable: Easily adapt to your taste with extra herbs or spice

Perfect side dish: Great with grilled meats, rice dishes, or sandwiches
Refreshing and unique: A modern twist on traditional slaws or salads

Ingredients

4 large carrots

1 shallot, finely diced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Zest and juice of 1 small lemon
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

2–3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

Peel the outer layer of the carrots and discard. Continue to peel the carrots into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler and place them in a large bowl
Add the finely diced shallot and chopped cilantro to the bowl with the carrots

In a small bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lemon zest, and lemon juice to create the dressing
Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss well to combine
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad and give it a final toss

Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld

Servings And Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: Approx. 90 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dressing
Nutty crunch: Top with crushed peanuts or almonds
Asian twist: Mix in thinly sliced cucumber, radish, or napa cabbage

Sweet option: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness
Herb swap: Use mint or Thai basil instead of cilantro for a different flavor profile

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days

Reheating: Not needed—this is a raw salad meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature
Meal prep tip: Dress just before serving if storing for more than a day to maintain the best texture

FAQs

Can I Make This Salad Ahead Of Time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after sitting for 15–30 minutes as the flavors meld, but it’s best enjoyed within 1–2 days

Do I Have To Use A Vegetable Peeler For The Carrots?

A peeler creates thin ribbons for the best texture, but you can also julienne or grate the carrots if preferred

Is This Salad Vegan And Gluten-Free?

Yes, just make sure your soy sauce is certified gluten-free if needed

Can I Use Regular Vinegar Instead Of Rice Vinegar?

Yes, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as substitutes

What Can I Use Instead Of Shallots?

Red onions or green onions work well as alternatives

How Do I Toast Sesame Seeds?

Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly until golden and fragrant

Can I Add Protein To This Salad?

Yes, top it with grilled tofu, edamame, or shredded chicken for a more filling option

What Other Herbs Work Well In This Salad?

Mint, Thai basil, or parsley can be used if you don’t like cilantro

Is This Salad Good For Picnics?

Absolutely—it’s a great cold salad that travels well and doesn’t wilt quickly

Can I Use Bottled Lemon Juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled can be used in a pinch

Conclusion

Zesty Carrot Salad is a quick, colorful, and flavor-packed dish that delivers freshness in every bite. Whether served as a side, appetizer, or healthy snack, this salad offers a satisfying crunch and a bold, tangy profile that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the perfect addition to any meal and a great way to make raw veggies truly exciting.

Fresh & Zesty Sides to Pair With Your Carrot Salad

Your Zesty Carrot Salad shines best when served alongside other bright, healthy, and flavor-packed dishes. Here are some perfect pairings from ClapRecipes:

Add even more crunch with the tangy Refreshing Cucumber Salad Recipe—ideal for summer spreads.

Complement the citrus notes with Fruit Salad With Honey Lime Dressing for a vibrant, sweet twist.
Stay on the zesty train with the pasta-based Zesty Spaghetti Salad, a crowd-pleaser at potlucks.
Pair it with protein-rich Mediterranean Salmon Patties for a nourishing lunch combo.

Serve with the crisp and savory Garlic Herb Foil Grilled Asparagus Spears to balance texture and flavor.

Zesty Carrot Salad

Author: Chef Clara

Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A vibrant, crunchy salad featuring fresh carrots, shallots, and cilantro, tossed in a tangy sesame-soy dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light, healthy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large carrots
1 shallot, finely diced

1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar

Zest and juice of 1 small lemon
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
2–3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

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Instructions

Peel the outer layer of the carrots and discard. Continue to peel the carrots into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler and place them in a large bowl.
Add the finely diced shallot and chopped cilantro to the bowl with the carrots.
In a small bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lemon zest, and lemon juice to create the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss well to combine.
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad and give it a final toss.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

For added crunch, include julienned cucumber or daikon radish.
Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
This salad pairs well with grilled meats or rice dishes.

Can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes

Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 90
Sugar: 4g

Sodium: 430mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g

Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 9g

Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg