Viral TikTok Carrot Ribbon Salad (Carrot Salad Recipe)

This carrot ribbon salad takes ordinary carrots and turns them into an addictive, healthy side dish. With crunchy carrot ribbons, a tangy sesame-soy dressing, and a hint of garlic and ginger, it’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. I've recreated a few viral TikTok recipes—Logan's cucumber salad and dense bean salad—and they were a huge success, so you can be confident that this carrot salad recipe will exceed expectations.

Why I Love This Carrot Salad Recipe

I love this carrot ribbon salad because it transforms a simple vegetable into something crave-worthy. The soy sauce and sesame oil bring deep umami flavor, while lime juice and rice vinegar keep it bright and zesty. A touch of maple syrup ties it all together with just the right sweetness. It’s quick, healthy, and impressive without requiring much effort, and I love that you can make it with nothing more than a basic vegetable peeler—no fancy gadgets needed.

I first came across this style of carrot salad when it went viral on TikTok, and I knew I had to try it. After making the original version, I decided to put my own spin on it by balancing the tangy and savory flavors with a touch of natural sweetness. It’s become one of my favorite side dishes to pair with noodles, grilled meats, or even as a topping for rice bowls. Now, whenever I want a salad that feels fresh, fun, and just a little different, this carrot ribbon salad is my go-to.

Don't just take my word for it though, here's what one of our readers who made it had to say about it:

Made this as an app for a dinner we hosted with our best friends and it was big hit. My friend even asked me for the recipe she liked it so much. -Anna P.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4–5 carrots, shredded or ribboned
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• ½ lime, juiced
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon ginger powder (or fresh grated ginger)
• 1–2 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoon cilantro, chopped

How To Make Carrot Salad

Step 1: Prep the Carrots

Wash carrots thoroughly. Peel if desired. Use a vegetable peeler to shave into thin ribbons, or shred using a box grater/food processor.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until smooth.

Step 3: Toss and Combine

Transfer carrots to a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until evenly coated.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Top with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately as a fresh side or light snack.

My Expert Tips for The Best Carrot Salad

• Choose the freshest carrots: Firm, brightly colored carrots make all the difference—they’re naturally sweeter, crunchier, and hold their shape when shaved into ribbons. Avoid limp or older carrots, as they won’t give the same crisp bite.
• Ribbon vs. shred: Carrot ribbons have a delicate, restaurant-style presentation and a satisfying crunch. If you prefer a finer texture, shredded carrots from a box grater or food processor work as a quick shortcut. Both methods are delicious—it just depends on the look and texture you want.
• Balance the dressing to your taste: Always taste the dressing before tossing it with the carrots. Add more lime juice or rice vinegar if you like extra tang, or a drizzle of maple syrup if you want more sweetness. The dressing should hit the perfect balance of salty, sweet, tangy, and savory.
• Toast your sesame seeds: Don’t skip this step! Toasting sesame seeds in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes brings out their nutty flavor, making the whole salad more aromatic. Sprinkle them on just before serving for the best crunch.
• Let it rest (just briefly): While this carrot salad is best enjoyed fresh, letting it sit for 5–10 minutes after dressing allows the flavors to meld and the carrots to absorb some of the tangy, umami-rich dressing. So wait a few minutes if you can resist! 
• Customize the flavors: This recipe is flexible—add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha for heat, swap cilantro for parsley if you’re not a fan, or stir in scallions for extra bite. You can also top it with crushed peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
• Make it more filling: Carrot ribbon salad is refreshing on its own, but it also shines as part of a meal. Serve it over rice or quinoa bowls, layer it into wraps or sandwiches for crunch, or pair it with grilled salmon, chicken, or tofu for a balanced, protein-packed dinner.

Carrot Salad Recipe Variations

• Spicy Carrot Salad: If you like heat, add ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes, a drizzle of sriracha, or even a pinch of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to the dressing. The spice balances with the tangy lime and sweet maple syrup.
• Peanut Twist: For a creamy, nutty version, whisk 1 tablespoon of peanut butter into the dressing until smooth. It gives the carrot salad a rich depth of flavor and pairs especially well if you’re serving it with grilled chicken or tofu.
• Crunch Boost: Swap the sesame seeds and top the salad with roasted peanuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds, or even sunflower seeds for extra crunch and protein. Toasting the nuts or seeds before adding them makes the salad even more aromatic and flavorful.
• Herb Swap: Not a fan of cilantro? Swap it out for fresh mint, Thai basil, or parsley. Mint adds a cooling note, Thai basil brings a subtle anise flavor, and parsley keeps things bright and fresh.
• Make it a Meal: Turn this carrot ribbon salad into a hearty main dish by tossing it with soba noodles, rice noodles, spicy noodles, or even thin spaghetti. Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu on top, and you’ve got a complete meal that feels light but satisfying.
• Tropical Twist: Mix in shredded mango or pineapple chunks for a sweet-sour contrast that makes the salad taste bright and refreshing. It’s a great variation for summer or when you want a lighter, fruit-forward side dish.
• Sesame-Ginger Upgrade: Whisk in freshly grated ginger and an extra drizzle of toasted sesame oil to the dressing for even more depth. This variation leans into bold Asian-inspired flavors that pair perfectly with rice bowls or stir-fry dinners.

Carrot Salad FAQs

Can I make this carrot ribbon salad ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, so the carrots stay crisp, but you can prep the components in advance. Shave the carrots and store them in a sealed container with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out, and whisk the dressing separately. When you’re ready to serve, toss everything together—this keeps the salad bright and crunchy.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots for this recipe?

Yes, you can, but the texture and look will be different. Pre-shredded carrots are usually drier and less crisp than freshly peeled carrot ribbons. For the best flavor and presentation, use a vegetable peeler to make ribbons, but pre-shredded carrots work in a pinch if you need a shortcut.

How long does carrot salad last in the fridge?

Once dressed, the salad will stay fresh for about 24 hours in the fridge. After that, the carrots begin to soften and lose their crunch. If you need it to last longer, keep the dressing and carrots separate until just before serving.

Is this carrot salad healthy?

Yes! Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants, making this salad nutrient-rich and naturally low in calories. The sesame oil in the dressing provides healthy fats, while the lime juice and vinegar keep it light and refreshing. It’s a flavorful way to add more veggies to your meals.

What goes well with carrot ribbon salad?

This carrot salad recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside almond chicken, miso salmon, firecracker shrimp, or tofu for a healthy main course, or pair it with Asian-inspired dishes like rice bowls, stir-fries like this shaved steak stir-fry, or soba noodles. It also makes a fresh, colorful side for picnics and potlucks.

My Final Thoughts

This carrot ribbon salad recipe takes a simple vegetable and turns it into the star of a flavorful and healthy side dish. With crunchy carrots, a tangy-sweet sesame dressing, and fresh herbs, this is a quick and versatile recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights, healthy lunches, or as a colorful side for gatherings. Try it out and leave a comment and review below. I'd love to hear what you think! 

Viral Recipes From TikTok To Try Next

• Iceberg lettuce salad
• Cajun egg boil
• Boat dip
• Lasagna soup
• Costco chicken scallion rice
• Buffalo chicken mac and cheese
• Tini's mac and cheese