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A close-up of a fresh carrot ribbon salad with diced red onions and dill in a white bowl.

Asian Carrot Ribbon Salad Quick Crunchy Weeknight Salad

This vibrant Asian Carrot Ribbon Salad is a quick, crunchy, and flavorful side dish perfect for any weeknight meal. Featuring delicate carrot ribbons tossed in a tangy ginger-sesame dressing, it's a refreshing addition to your table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 165

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb Carrots about 4-5 medium, peeled
  • 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1/4 cup Roasted peanuts roughly chopped
  • 1 tbsp Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
For the Asian Dressing
  • 3 tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp Rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tsp Honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Fresh ginger grated
  • 1 clove Garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp Sriracha optional, for heat

Equipment

  • Vegetable peeler
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small Whisk
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups

Method
 

Prepare the Carrots
  1. Using a vegetable peeler, carefully peel the carrots lengthwise into thin ribbons. Discard the very ends if they are too small. Place the carrot ribbons in a large mixing bowl.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha (if using) until well combined.
Assemble the Salad
  1. Pour the dressing over the carrot ribbons in the large mixing bowl. Add the chopped fresh cilantro and roughly chopped roasted peanuts. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  2. Transfer the Asian Carrot Ribbon Salad to a serving dish. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the carrots to marinate slightly. You can prepare the carrots and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine just before serving for maximum crunch. Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like thinly sliced red bell pepper or cucumber ribbons.