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Asian cucumber salad. Refreshing and easy to make!

CRAZY GOOD Asian Cucumber Salad

Amelia
This Asian Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect as a side or light lunch. The sweet and tangy dressing complements the crisp cucumbers, making it a delightful and easy-to-make recipe for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Colander
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife or mandoline
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Medium bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Grater or zester (for ginger)
  • Paper towels (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 English cucumbers or 3-4 Persian cucumbers
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • ΒΌ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Instructions
 

  • Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. If using regular garden cucumbers, peel them. If using English or Persian cucumbers, you can leave the skin on. Slice the cucumbers thinly (about 1/8 inch thick).
  • Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Toss gently to coat, and let them sit for 15-20 minutes. This draws out excess moisture.
  • Rinse the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water to remove the excess salt. Gently squeeze out any remaining moisture with your hands or pat them dry with paper towels.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the dressing is well combined.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the prepared cucumbers, green onions, and sesame seeds.
  • Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to coat.
  • Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
  • Serve chilled. Garnish with extra sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.

Notes

For the best crispness, don't skip the salting step. Taste the dressing and adjust sweetness, sourness, or saltiness to your liking. Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The cucumbers may lose some crispness over time.