Preparation Details
– Preparation time: 15 minutes
– Chilling time: 20–30 minutes
– Cooking time: None
– Total time: 45 minutes
– Servings: 4–6
– Difficulty: Easy
– Cuisine: American-inspired
– Cooking method: No-cook
Ingredients
For the Salad
– 3 large English cucumbers
– 1 cup freshly shredded carrots
– 3 green onions, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
For the Creamy Dressing
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– ½ cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1 garlic clove, finely minced
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon dried dill
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
– Extra shredded carrots
– Fresh dill leaves
– Chopped green onions
– A sprinkle of paprika
– Extra red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cool running water.
2. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
3. Cut off both ends.
4. Slice the cucumbers into thick rounds or half-moon pieces.
5. If using regular cucumbers, peel them partially if desired.
6. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
Helpful tip: English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture
1. Sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with ½ teaspoon salt.
2. Toss gently.
3. Let them rest for approximately 10–15 minutes.
4. Drain the excess liquid.
5. Pat the cucumbers gently with paper towels.
This prevents the creamy dressing from becoming watery.
Step 3: Prepare the Carrots and Herbs
1. Peel and wash the carrots.
2. Grate them using a box grater.
3. Finely chop the green onions.
4. Chop the fresh dill and parsley.
5. Set everything aside.
Fresh herbs give this salad a wonderful aroma and flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
1. Mayonnaise.
2. Sour cream.
3. Greek yogurt.
4. Fresh lemon juice.
5. Dijon mustard.
6. Honey.
7. Minced garlic.
8. Garlic powder.
9. Onion powder.
10. Dried dill.
11. Black pepper and salt.
Whisk everything together until smooth, thick, and creamy.
Taste and adjust the lemon juice, salt, and pepper according to your preference.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
1. Add the shredded carrots to the cucumber bowl.
2. Add chopped green onions.
3. Sprinkle in fresh dill and parsley.
4. Pour the creamy dressing over the vegetables.
5. Gently toss using a large spoon.
6. Make sure all the cucumber slices and carrots are evenly coated.
Step 6: Add Extra Flavor
1. Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the salad.
2. Add a little freshly ground black pepper.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
4. Add additional fresh dill if desired.
Step 7: Chill the Salad
1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
2. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes.
3. Allow the dressing to blend with the vegetables.
4. Give the salad a gentle stir before serving.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the creamy cucumber and carrot salad into a beautiful serving bowl.
Garnish with fresh dill, green onions, shredded carrots, and a little paprika.
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Estimated values per serving, based on 6 servings.
Nutrient Amount
Calories 185 kcal
Protein 3 g
Carbohydrates 9 g
Total Fat 16 g
Saturated Fat 4 g
Fiber 2 g
Sugar 5 g
Cholesterol 20 mg
Sodium 390 mg
Potassium 330 mg
Nut Information (Q/S)
No added nuts
This creamy cucumber carrot salad contains no intentionally added nuts.
Nut type Amount
Almonds 0 g
Walnuts 0 g
Cashews 0 g
Pecans 0 g
Pistachios 0 g
Peanuts 0 g
Hazelnuts 0 g
Macadamia nuts 0 g
Allergen information:
– Contains dairy from sour cream and Greek yogurt.
– May contain eggs from mayonnaise.
– No peanuts or tree nuts are intentionally added.
– Check packaged dressing ingredients and labels for possible cross-contamination.
Helpful Tips for the Best Salad
1. Use fresh cucumbers: Firm cucumbers give the best crunch.
2. Drain excess moisture: This keeps the dressing thick and creamy.
3. Fresh dill is best: It adds a wonderful refreshing flavor.
4. Adjust the dressing: Add extra lemon juice for more tanginess.
5. Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes.
6. Keep it chilled: Refrigeration helps the flavors blend.
7. Don’t overdress: Add dressing gradually if you prefer a lighter salad.
Storage Instructions
– Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
– Best texture: Enjoy within 24 hours.
– Freezing: Not recommended because cucumbers become watery.
– Meal preparation: Prepare the dressing separately and combine shortly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
– Grilled chicken
– Garlic butter chicken
– BBQ beef
– Grilled fish
– Roasted potatoes
– Burgers and sandwiches
– Rice dishes
– Grilled vegetables
Final Result
A gorgeous bowl of crisp green cucumber slices, sweet shredded carrots, fresh herbs, and a thick, creamy garlic-dill dressing.
Every bite is crunchy, cool, tangy, refreshing, and delicious!
A perfect easy summer salad for family dinners, picnics, BBQ parties, and everyday meals.