Description of this recipe:
This refreshing and flavorful Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is the perfect side dish for any occasion. Crisp cucumber slices are tossed in a tangy and savory sesame dressing, creating a light and satisfying salad that complements a variety of meals. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a simple side for a weeknight dinner or a refreshing addition to a summer barbecue, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why you will love this recipe:
You’ll adore this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad for its simplicity and incredible taste. The combination of crisp cucumbers and a vibrant sesame dressing creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and refreshing dish. The salad is also naturally low in calories and packed with nutrients, making it a healthy and guilt-free option. Plus, the sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the overall experience. This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to any table setting.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sliced cucumbers (thinly sliced, about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted for enhanced flavor)
Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (or honey for a more natural sweetener)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers Begin by washing and thoroughly drying the cucumbers. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, thinly slice the cucumbers to about 1/8 inch thickness. Evenly sliced cucumbers ensure consistent flavor and texture in every bite. If you prefer, you can peel the cucumbers, but leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and nutrients. Place the sliced cucumbers in a medium-sized bowl.
Step 2: Toast the Sesame Seeds (Optional but Recommended) Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the salad. In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the sesame seeds. Toast them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and release a fragrant aroma. Be careful not to burn them. Remove the toasted sesame seeds from the skillet and set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar (or honey). Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved and the dressing is well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or saltiness according to your preference. If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Step 4: Combine and Marinate Pour the prepared dressing over the sliced cucumbers in the bowl. Gently toss the cucumbers to ensure they are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can cause the cucumbers to become soggy. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the cucumbers.
Step 5: Chill and Serve Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 10 minutes before serving. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together and the cucumbers to become even more crisp and refreshing. Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and sesame seeds.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, poultry, or fish.
- Pair with Asian-inspired dishes like stir-fries, noodle bowls, or sushi.
- Add to salads for extra flavor and crunch.
- Enjoy as a light and refreshing snack on its own.
- Garnish with extra sesame seeds or a sprinkle of chopped green onions for added visual appeal.
Tips:
- For the best texture, use fresh, firm cucumbers.
- To avoid a watery salad, salt the sliced cucumbers and let them sit for 15 minutes before rinsing and drying them thoroughly. This will draw out excess moisture.
- Adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the dressing to your liking.
- Toast the sesame seeds for a more intense flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- The salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
5 minutes (for toasting sesame seeds)
Total Time:
15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 50
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion:
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a delightful and simple dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of crisp cucumbers, tangy dressing, and nutty sesame seeds creates a flavor explosion that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a light snack, or a healthy addition to your meal, this salad is sure to please. So, grab some cucumbers and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Questions and Answers:
- Question: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Answer: Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. In fact, chilling it for at least 10 minutes allows the flavors to meld together. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, keep in mind that the cucumbers may become slightly softer over time.
- Question: Can I use a different type of vinegar?
- Answer: While rice vinegar is traditionally used in this recipe, you can substitute it with other mild vinegars like white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different, so adjust the other ingredients accordingly.
- Question: I don’t have sesame oil. Can I use another oil?
- Answer: Sesame oil adds a distinctive nutty flavor to the dressing, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute it with a neutral oil like vegetable oil or canola oil. However, the flavor of the salad will be less pronounced.
- Question: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
- Answer: Absolutely! You can customize this salad to your liking by adding other vegetables such as sliced red onions, shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even some fresh herbs like cilantro or mint.
- Question: Is this salad gluten-free?
- Answer: This salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce. Most soy sauces contain wheat, so be sure to check the label and choose a gluten-free alternative if needed.
