This Asian-Style Marinated Zucchini and Carrot Salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that brings together the crispness of raw vegetables with the rich umami of soy sauce and the zesty brightness of lemon juice. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light appetizer, and the combination of zucchini, carrot, and toasted sesame seeds makes it healthy and nutritious. The coriander, garlic, and fresh parsley add layers of flavor that make this simple salad stand out. Not only is it quick to make, but it also offers a unique taste of Asian-inspired cuisine that pairs well with various main dishes.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Zucchini: 2 pieces
- Raw carrot: 1 piece
- Fresh parsley: 20 g
- Garlic: 3 cloves
- Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon
- Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
- Toasted sesame seeds: 20 g
Steps to Make the Marinated Zucchini and Carrot Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash the zucchini and carrot: Start by thoroughly washing the zucchini and the carrot. Since this is a raw vegetable salad, it’s essential to ensure they are clean and free from any dirt or chemicals.
- Grate the vegetables: Using a grater, shred the zucchini and carrot into thin strips. You can also use a julienne peeler or a spiralizer if you prefer thinner, noodle-like pieces. Place the grated vegetables into a large bowl.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- Crush the garlic: Take the garlic cloves and crush them using a garlic press or finely chop them if you don’t have a press.
- Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, lemon juice, sugar, ground coriander, and the minced garlic. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved. This creates a savory and slightly tangy marinade that will infuse the vegetables with flavor.
Step 3: Marinate the Vegetables
- Pour the marinade: Pour the soy sauce mixture over the shredded zucchini and carrots. Use your hands or salad tongs to toss everything together, making sure the marinade is evenly distributed across the vegetables.
- Add the fresh parsley: Finely chop the parsley and sprinkle it over the salad. Toss again to combine. The parsley adds freshness and color to the dish.
- Let it rest: Allow the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the vegetables absorb the marinade, enhancing the overall taste.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
- Toast the sesame seeds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds until they are golden brown and fragrant. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn them, as they toast quickly.
- Garnish the salad: Once the sesame seeds are toasted, sprinkle them over the salad for an added layer of nutty flavor and a slight crunch.
- Serve: Give the salad a final toss, and it’s ready to serve. You can enjoy it immediately or let it sit in the fridge for an hour to chill and allow the flavors to develop even further.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
(Based on approximately 4 servings)
- Calories: 85 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other vegetables in this salad?
Absolutely! While zucchini and carrots are the base of this recipe, you can experiment with other raw vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or radishes to add more texture and flavor variety.
2. Is there a substitute for soy sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari (a gluten-free option) or coconut aminos, which is a soy-free alternative. Both will give a similar umami flavor to the dish.
3. How long will this salad stay fresh?
This salad is best consumed fresh or within a few hours of making it. However, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The zucchini may release some water over time, so if you plan to keep it for longer, consider draining off excess liquid before serving.
4. Can I make this salad spicy?
Yes! If you want to add some heat, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili in the marinade. It will give the salad a nice spicy kick without overpowering the other flavors.
5. What can I serve with this salad?
This marinated zucchini and carrot salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also complements rice dishes, noodles, or even wraps, making it a versatile side dish for many types of meals.
Tips for Making the Best Marinated Zucchini and Carrot Salad
- Use fresh vegetables: Fresh zucchini and carrots are key to making this salad crispy and delicious. Look for firm, unblemished zucchini and bright orange carrots for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the soy sauce, lemon juice, and sugar to your taste. If you like it more tangy, add more lemon juice. For a sweeter flavor, increase the sugar slightly.
- Chill before serving: If you have time, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to meld and makes the salad even more refreshing.
- Add protein: To turn this salad into a more substantial meal, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Simply toss them in with the vegetables and marinade.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The zucchini and carrots will hold their texture well, but you may want to drain any excess liquid before serving if it’s been sitting for a while.
- Meal prep option: If you’re prepping this salad ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving. This will prevent the vegetables from becoming too soft.
- Freezing: This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the high water content of zucchini and the raw nature of the ingredients.
Conclusion
This Asian-Style Marinated Zucchini and Carrot Salad is a light, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, soy sauce, lemon, and toasted sesame seeds creates a delicious harmony of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. With its ease of preparation and versatility, this salad is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light lunch, or an appetizer, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy fresh vegetables with a zesty twist. Enjoy!