Asian Cucumber Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Crisp: The cucumbers are sliced thin to soak up all the delicious flavors while maintaining their fresh crunch.

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in no time with just a few simple ingredients.

• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The dressing combines savory sesame oil, tangy vinegar, a hint of sweetness, and a touch of heat, making it a flavor explosion.

• Versatile: You can serve this salad as a side dish with a variety of meals, from Asian-inspired dishes to grilled proteins or even as a light, refreshing snack.

Ingredients

• 2 medium cucumbers

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by washing and peeling the cucumbers. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness.

2. Place the cucumber slices in a bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes to release some moisture.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, and minced garlic.

4. After the cucumbers have released moisture, gently pat them dry with a paper towel or clean cloth.

5. Toss the cucumbers in the prepared dressing until well coated.

6. Add sesame seeds, chili flakes (if using), and cilantro for garnish. Mix again to combine.

7. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes (including time for the cucumbers to sit and release moisture)

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more chili flakes or even a small amount of sriracha to the dressing for an extra kick.

• Sweet Version: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, increase the sugar in the dressing slightly.

• Herb Alternatives: You can swap cilantro for mint or green onions to give the salad a different flavor profile.

• Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add thinly sliced red onion, radishes, or even bell peppers for extra crunch and color.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The cucumbers may soften slightly but will still taste great.

• Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. There's no need to reheat as it’s a chilled dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

2. What type of cucumbers should I use for this recipe?

You can use any cucumber variety, but English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best as they are less watery and have fewer seeds.

3. How can I make this salad spicier?

To make it spicier, add extra chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dressing. Adjust to your heat preference.

4. Can I use a different oil instead of sesame oil?

Sesame oil gives a unique flavor, but you can substitute it with olive oil or avocado oil if preferred. However, it won’t have the same taste.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce.

6. Can I use a different vinegar?

If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, though the flavor may differ slightly.

7. How long should I let the cucumbers sit after salting them?

Allow the cucumbers to sit for about 5-10 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture, ensuring a crisp texture.

8. Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, you can easily add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this a more substantial meal.

9. Can I make this salad without garlic?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of garlic, feel free to omit it. The salad will still be flavorful without it.

10. How do I prevent the cucumbers from getting too soggy?

Make sure to salt the cucumbers and let them sit for a few minutes to draw out excess water. Pat them dry before mixing with the dressing to keep the texture crisp.

Conclusion

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. It’s quick to prepare, refreshing, and packed with bold flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, pairing it with your favorite Asian-inspired dishes, or enjoying it as a light snack, this salad is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

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