Looking for a quick and healthy side dish that’s packed with flavor? You’re in the right place! Today, I’m excited to share my Easy Carrot Salad with Asian Dressing recipe. It’s a refreshing, vibrant dish that’s perfect for a light snack or as a complement to your favorite grilled meats. Plus, it’s ready in just 15 minutes—talk about a win for quick family dinners!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for 30-minute meals
- Packed with fresh flavors and nutrients
- Customizable to suit your taste preferences
- Great for meal prep or weeknight dinner ideas
- Vegan-friendly and gluten-free
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Easy Carrot Salad with Asian Dressing:
- 4 carrots, peeled and shaved or grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
- A splash of lime or lemon juice
- 2.5 tablespoons olive oil
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process:
- Use a vegetable peeler, grater, or food processor to create carrot ribbons. Transfer them to a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, chili flakes, and salt. Drizzle the dressing over the carrot ribbons and toss well to coat. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Arrange the salad on a platter or individual plates. Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and additional chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy as a light snack or pair with grilled chicken or salmon for a satisfying meal.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are a few tips to take your Easy Carrot Salad with Asian Dressing to the next level:
- For extra crunch, add some toasted chopped nuts or seeds like peanuts or pumpkin seeds.
- Customize the dressing by adjusting the level of spiciness or sweetness to your taste.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Consider adding some fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for a fresh twist.
How to Serve
This versatile salad is perfect for a variety of occasions:
- As a light and refreshing side dish for your next family dinner
- Paired with grilled chicken or salmon for a balanced meal
- As a healthy snack on its own
- As part of a larger spread for entertaining guests
Looking for more delicious side dish ideas? Check out my How to Make Perfect Roasted Asparagus and Carrots or Honey Garlic Roasted Mushrooms for more inspiration.
Make Ahead and Storage
One of the best things about this salad is that it can be prepared ahead of time:
- Prepare the carrot ribbons and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Make the dressing and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Assemble the salad just before serving for the freshest flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
There you have it—my Easy Carrot Salad with Asian Dressing recipe that’s perfect for quick family dinners, weeknight dinner ideas, and so much more. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!
Easy Carrot Salad with Asian Dressing
Ingredients
Dressing
- 4 carrots shaved
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon chilli flakes
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1-2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 2.5 tablespoon olive oil
- salt to taste
- sesame seeds
Instructions
- Use a vegetable peeler, grater or food processor to make carrot ribbons. Transfer them to a large bowl.
- Whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, chili flakes and salt in a small bowl. Drizzle over the carrot ribbons and toss well. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Arrange the salad on a platter, garnish with scallions, sesame seeds and more chili flakes if desired. Enjoy as a light snack or pair with grilled chicken or salmon for a satisfying meal.