Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
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Flavorful: The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil creates a deliciously tangy and savory dressing.
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Healthy: Made with fresh cucumbers and simple ingredients, it's a light and nutritious option.
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Versatile: Great as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light snack.
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Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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5 Persian cucumbers
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ tablespoon sesame oil
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¾ tablespoon light soy sauce
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1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
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¾ tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon chili oil (optional)
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Directions
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Rinse the Persian cucumbers thoroughly.
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Slice the cucumbers thinly, preferably at a diagonal angle for better texture.
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Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Mix well and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
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In a separate bowl, combine sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and chili oil (if using). Mix until the sugar dissolves.
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Drain any excess liquid from the cucumbers and pat them dry with a paper towel.
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Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat evenly.
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Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add more chili oil or sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat.
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Garlic Flavor: Incorporate minced garlic into the dressing for an added depth of flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Top with crushed peanuts or almonds for a crunchy texture.
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Herbal Touch: Garnish with chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh twist.
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Sweet and Sour: Adjust the sugar and vinegar ratios to achieve your preferred balance.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold. Reheating is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the cucumbers.
FAQs
What type of cucumbers should I use?
Persian cucumbers are recommended for their crisp texture and mild flavor. If unavailable, English cucumbers are a suitable alternative.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to consume it within 24 hours.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based, making it suitable for a vegan diet.
How can I make this salad gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce to make the salad gluten-free.
What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, rice dishes, or as part of an Asian-inspired meal.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced carrots, radishes, or bell peppers can add color and variety.
How spicy is this salad?
The spiciness depends on the amount of chili oil used. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Yes, but it's advisable to peel and deseed them to reduce bitterness and excess moisture.
How do I prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy?
Salting the cucumbers and letting them sit helps draw out excess moisture, keeping them crisp.
Is it necessary to use sesame seeds?
No, sesame seeds are optional but add a nice texture and flavor to the salad.
Conclusion
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for both everyday meals and special occasions. Give it a try and enjoy a refreshing taste of Asia in your own kitchen.
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