Crispy Cucumber & Sesame Ribbon Salad

⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 0 minutes

This salad is crisp, refreshing, and packed with flavor—thanks to a quick sesame-soy dressing and ribbons of cucumber and carrot that soak it all up beautifully. It’s crunchy, slightly tangy, a little nutty, and completely addictive. Perfect for potlucks or summer spreads!

Cucumber and carrot ribbons tossed in sesame-soy dressing, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

You know those dishes that look simple but totally surprise people? That’s this one. I made it for a friend’s rooftop picnic, and even the die-hard meat eaters went back for seconds. The key is shaving the veggies into thin ribbons—it helps them absorb all that punchy dressing while still keeping their crunch.

I love using rice vinegar and toasted sesame oil here because they give that classic Asian-inspired zing without being overpowering. And a sprinkle of sesame seeds? Chef’s kiss. If you’re serving a big crowd, just double the batch and watch it disappear.

Bonus: it’s gluten-free, soy-flexible, and stays crisp for hours. Basically, your new go-to party side.

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Ingredients

🍽️ Servings: 4 • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 120

• 2 large cucumbers

• 2 medium carrots

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted if you want extra flavor)

For the dressing:

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari

• ½ teaspoon maple syrup or agave

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

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Steps

Step 1

Use a vegetable peeler to shave cucumbers and carrots into long, thin ribbons. Add to a large bowl with sliced green onions.

Step 2

In a small jar or bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, maple syrup, and red pepper flakes.

Step 3

Pour dressing over the veggies and toss gently to coat. Let sit for 5–10 minutes.

Step 4

Sprinkle with sesame seeds just before serving.

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Make it your own!

• 🥜 Add crushed peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.

• 🥭 Toss in thin slices of mango for a sweet twist.

• 🌿 Add fresh mint or cilantro for extra brightness.

• 🌶️ Want heat? A drizzle of chili crisp or sriracha brings it to life.

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Try it with…

Did you make this recipe?

Did you add a unique twist? Did your family enjoy it? Share your thoughts and any customizations you made in the comments below.

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