What’s the best tool to make carrot ribbon salad?

For this carrot ribbon salad recipe , I recommend a Y-peeler. It gives you long, wide ribbons that look beautiful and hold dressing well. A mandoline works too, just be careful with your fingers.

Can I prep this salad ahead of time?

Yes—one of the joys of this carrot ribbon salad recipe is how well it holds. You can slice the ribbons and make the dressing a day ahead. Toss them together 30 minutes before serving for best texture.

How do I keep the ribbons from breaking?

Start with firm, thick carrots. Peel slowly, applying even pressure. If the ribbons still snap, blanch them quickly in boiling water—10 seconds will do. But in most cases, this salad works best with raw ribbons.

What protein pairs well with this salad?

Grilled shrimp, smoked salmon, or crispy tofu. This carrot ribbon salad recipe also loves being next to something rich—like a creamy dip or a slow-roasted chicken thigh.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Try shaved fennel, zucchini ribbons, or radishes. The base is flexible. Just keep everything sliced thin and crisp.

Vibrant Carrot Ribbon Salad Recipe For Summer 2025

Description

This carrot ribbon salad is light, quick, and full of character. It’s perfect for any season and makes a vibrant, refreshing addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large carrots, peeled into ribbons
1 small English cucumber, shaved into ribbons (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint or Thai basil
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or sunflower seeds
Crushed peanuts (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Optional: ½ tsp toasted sesame oil or pinch of red chili flakes

Instructions

Use a vegetable peeler or mandoline to shave long, thin ribbons from your carrots and cucumber.
Add the chopped mint or basil to the ribbons and toss gently.
In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until emulsified.
Pour the dressing over the ribbons and toss gently to coat.
Sprinkle with seeds and nuts right before serving.
Optional: Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving for deeper flavor.

Notes

This salad is flexible and seasonal—try adding radishes in spring or fennel in fall. If prepping ahead, store undressed and add dressing before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120
Sugar: 6
Sodium: 150
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 1
Unsaturated Fat: 6
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 12
Fiber: 3
Protein: 2
Cholesterol: 0

Keywords: carrot salad, summer salad, quick salad, ribbon salad, healthy side