Asian Cucumber Salad Sesame (Printable Version)

Crisp cucumbers with sesame and rice vinegar create a tangy, refreshing salad perfect for light meals.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
02 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced

→ Dressing

03 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
04 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
05 - 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
06 - 1 teaspoon sugar or maple syrup
07 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
09 - 1 clove garlic, finely minced
10 - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

→ Garnish

11 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
12 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, optional
13 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

# Steps:

01 - Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl. Sprinkle with sea salt and toss to combine. Let sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently squeeze and drain off any liquid.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves completely.
03 - Add the dressing and green onions to the cucumbers. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
04 - Transfer to a serving bowl. Top with toasted sesame seeds, cilantro, and red pepper flakes if using.
05 - Serve immediately, or chill for 10 to 15 minutes for enhanced flavor development.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick to prepare with no cooking required.
  • Light and refreshing, ideal for warm weather or as a palate cleanser.
  • Vegan and gluten-free, fitting a variety of dietary needs.
  • Bright, tangy dressing balances perfectly with the crunch of fresh cucumbers.
02 -
  • Use a sharp knife or mandoline to ensure consistent thin slices of cucumber for the best texture.
  • Allowing the cucumbers to sit with salt extracts excess moisture, which intensifies crunch and prevents dilution of the dressing.
  • Whisk the dressing thoroughly to dissolve sugar and meld flavors for a balanced taste.
  • Chilling the salad before serving enhances the flavors and refreshes the palate.
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