Dessert

Korean Carrot Salad Recipe

Name: Korean Carrot Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 3 medium carrots; 2 bell peppers (seeded and thinly sliced; combination of red, orange, or yellow, NOT green); 1/4 cup green onion (finely chopped); 2 tbsp cilantro (finely chopped); 2 tbsp distilled white vinegar; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp soy sauce (preferably low sodium, or Tamari for gluten free); 1 tsp sesame oil; 1/4 to 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (to taste); 1/3 cup cashews (toasted and coarsely chopped)

ByRafael Mansero March 22, 2026March 22, 2026

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Introduction

Korean Carrot Salad is a vibrant, crunchy dish bursting with fresh flavors and a hint of spice. This colorful salad combines crisp carrots and bell peppers with a tangy, savory dressing, making it a perfect side or light snack.

A white bowl filled with a colorful salad showing multiple layers starting with thin orange carrot sticks and thin red and yellow bell pepper strips mixed throughout. On top, there are chopped cashews scattered in the center and small pieces of green onion and parsley lightly spread across the salad. A silver spoon is resting inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with some sprigs of cilantro around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 medium carrots
2 bell peppers (seeded and thinly sliced; combination of red, orange, or yellow, but NOT green)
1/4 cup green onion (finely chopped)
2 Tbsp cilantro (finely chopped)
2 Tbsp distilled white vinegar
1 Tbsp sugar
1 Tbsp soy sauce (preferably low sodium, or Tamari for gluten free)
1 tsp sesame oil
1/4 to 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (depending on desired heat)
1/3 cup cashews (toasted and coarsely chopped, to garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the cashews in a dry skillet, tossing frequently until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool, then coarsely chop.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together distilled white vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes until the sugar dissolves. Set the dressing aside to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the carrots, sliced bell peppers, green onions, and cilantro.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20 minutes to marinate.
Step 5: Before serving, stir the salad and taste. Adjust seasoning with more vinegar if needed. Garnish with the toasted, chopped cashews.

Tips & Variations

Use Tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level for a milder or spicier salad.
Try adding a splash of lime juice for extra brightness.
For added crunch, substitute or mix cashews with toasted sesame seeds.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving, as the vegetables might release some liquid. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for a short time. Avoid freezing as the texture will change.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a bright, colorful carrot salad, showing about three main layers: the base layer is thin, orange shredded carrots mixed with green chopped herbs, the middle layer has thin strips of red and yellow bell peppers adding red and golden yellow tones, and the top layer is scattered chopped light brown nuts for texture and contrast; a silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side, all set on a white marbled surface with a few green herb leaves visible nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead and let it marinate in the refrigerator for the flavors to develop. However, it’s best eaten within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and crunch.

Can I substitute cashews with other nuts?

Absolutely. Toasted almonds, peanuts, or walnuts can also be used as a garnish to add crunch and flavor, depending on your preference or dietary restrictions.