Viral Carrot Salad – Spicy, Crunchy, and Totally Addictive (TikTok-Inspired and Meal Prep-Ready)
Samantha
This viral carrot salad is everything you love in a trending dish—spicy, crunchy, quick, and totally addictive. Made with shredded carrots, garlic-infused sesame oil, and a spoonful of chili crisp, it’s a flavor-packed, 10-minute side that’s naturally gluten-free, vegan, and meal prep-approved.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 10 minutes mins
Course Meal Prep, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine Asian-Inspired, Fusion
Servings 4 servings
Calories 150 kcal
- 1 lb carrots peeled and shredded
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tsp chili crisp
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp low-sodium soy sauce
- Pinch of salt optional
Shred the Carrots: Use a box grater, food processor, or julienne peeler to shred carrots into thin strips.
Make the Dressing: In a small pan, heat sesame oil on medium. Add garlic and cook just until fragrant (30–45 seconds). Remove from heat and stir in chili crisp.
Mix It Together: Toss the shredded carrots with vinegar, soy sauce, and the hot garlic-chili oil. Stir to coat completely.
Chill or Serve: You can enjoy it immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld.
Secret Tips for the Perfect Viral Carrot Salad
1. Use fresh, firm carrots: For that signature crunch, choose carrots that are firm and vibrant in color. Fresh carrots not only taste sweeter but also hold up better for meal prep, keeping your spicy carrot salad crisp for days.
2. Shred or julienne for texture: A fine julienne cut or using a mandoline gives the salad a uniform texture, helping the dressing coat every strand evenly for maximum flavor in each bite.
3. Balance the spice: TikTok-inspired carrot salads often bring the heat, so adjust chili flakes, sriracha, or gochugaru to your preference. If you love bold flavors, pair the spice with a touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup.
4. Let it marinate: Allow the salad to sit for at least 15–20 minutes before serving. This gives the lemon juice, vinegar, or soy sauce in the dressing time to soak into the carrots, enhancing that addictive flavor.
5. Top with crunch: Just before serving, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or crispy fried garlic. This extra layer of crunch makes your viral carrot salad irresistible and photo-worthy.Keyword chili_crisp_carrot_slaw, gluten_free_carrot_salad, low_calorie_crunchy_salad, meal_prep_carrot_salad, sesame_oil_carrot_salad, shredded_carrot_garlic_salad, spicy_carrot_salad_tiktok, tiktok_salad_recipe_trend, vegan_asian_carrot_salad, viral_carrot_salad
