Best Korean Carrot Salad Recipe – Easy & Flavorful Side Dish

When you’re looking for something refreshing, crunchy, and full of flavor, this Korean Carrot Salad Recipe is a must-try. Despite its name, this dish is not originally from Korea but from the Korean diaspora in Central Asia, where Korean immigrants created it as a twist on traditional Korean flavors. Today, it’s enjoyed worldwide as a zesty side dish that pairs beautifully with rice, grilled meats, or even on its own as a light salad.

The best part? This carrot salad is easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and tastes incredible.

Why You’ll Love This Korean Carrot Salad Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes.
• Flavorful & Tangy: A mix of garlic, vinegar, and spices creates bold flavor.
• Healthy & Light: Packed with fresh carrots, low in calories, and full of nutrients.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, snack, or even a topping for sandwiches and wraps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare this Korean Carrot Salad Recipe, you’ll need:

• 4 large carrots (grated into thin strips)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

Wash and peel the carrots. Using a grater or julienne slicer, shred them into thin matchstick-like strips. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

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Step 2: Season the Carrots

Add salt, sugar, black pepper, coriander, and red chili flakes to the carrots. Toss well to evenly coat.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic & Oil

In a small pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, remove from heat and immediately pour over the carrots. Add minced garlic right after pouring the hot oil—this step enhances the aroma and flavor.

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Step 4: Add Vinegar

Drizzle vinegar over the mixture and toss everything until well combined.

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Step 5: Rest for Flavor

Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together and the carrots to soften slightly.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle sesame seeds and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve chilled as a refreshing and flavorful side dish.

Cooking Tips for the Best Korean Carrot Salad

• Use fresh carrots: Crunchy, sweet carrots make the best salad.
• Adjust spice: Add more chili flakes if you prefer a spicier kick.
• Let it marinate: The longer it sits (up to overnight), the better it tastes.
• Oil matters: Neutral oils like sunflower or vegetable oil work best for this recipe.

Variations You Can Try

• Spicy Kick: Add gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) or a spoon of gochujang (chili paste).
• Nutty Flavor: Drizzle with sesame oil before serving.
• Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken or tofu strips for a more filling salad.
• Fresh Twist: Mix in thinly sliced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.

Summary

This Best Korean Carrot Salad Recipe is easy, flavorful, and refreshing. With simple ingredients like carrots, garlic, vinegar, and spices, it comes together quickly and pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether you serve it as a side dish, enjoy it as a light snack, or add it to wraps and sandwiches, this salad will brighten your table with its vibrant taste and color.

FAQs about Carrot Salad Recipe