Prep Time: 15 mins | Resting Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 35 mins | Difficulty: Easy
Introduction
Crisp, cool, and bursting with flavor, this Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing is the perfect side dish for any meal. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, tangy rice vinegar, and aromatic sesame oil creates a salad that’s both light and satisfying. It’s an ideal dish for warm weather, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier mains. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it on its own, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon salt (for salting cucumbers)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Salt the Cucumbers
Place the cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat evenly and let sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess water. This step helps to keep the cucumbers crisp and enhances their flavor. - Rinse and Dry
After the cucumbers have rested, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove the excess salt. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure they are not too wet before adding the dressing. - Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic until the sugar is fully dissolved. This dressing brings a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. - Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, toasted sesame seeds, and sliced green onions. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat evenly. For an extra kick, sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired. - Serve
Serve the salad immediately, or chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light, refreshing snack.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 60 kcal
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 5g
- Fat: 4g
Benefits
This Asian Cucumber Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in hydration, making this salad a great choice for those looking to stay light and refreshed. The sesame dressing adds healthy fats and antioxidants, while ginger and garlic provide anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a nutritious side dish that’s both flavorful and good for you.
FAQ
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad up to a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it chilled in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
2. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Rice vinegar is recommended for its mild and slightly sweet flavor, but you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if needed. The taste will be slightly different, but still delicious.
3. How do I toast sesame seeds?
To toast sesame seeds, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until they become golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn them!
4. What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
You can add thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, or radishes to this salad for extra crunch and color. These vegetables pair well with the sesame dressing.
5. Is this salad gluten-free?
To make this salad gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
6. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes, adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can turn this salad into a satisfying main dish. Just prepare the protein and toss it in with the cucumbers and dressing.
