Asian Cucumber Sesame Salad

Crunchy cucumbers meet a light tangy dressing with hints of sesame and ginger in this Asian cucumber salad that is fresh enough for summer but delicious all year round I love how quickly this comes together for potlucks or when I need a palate-cleansing side

Ingredients

• Cucumbers: choose the firmest ones with bright green skins for the most satisfying crunch
• Rice vinegar: gives that essential tang try to get unseasoned for the purest flavor
• Soy sauce: adds umami depth look for low sodium if you want a lighter taste
• Sesame oil: brings a nutty aroma toasted sesame oil in particular works great here
• Honey: rounds everything with gentle sweetness use pure honey for the best taste
• Garlic: minced fresh for sharp punch avoid jars for maximum flavor
• Ginger: grated fresh ginger tastes brighter than powdered so use a microplane for best results
• Red pepper flakes: add a hint of heat feel free to adjust based on your spice level
• Toasted sesame seeds: sprinkle for nutty crunch toast them yourself for extra aroma
• Green onions: slice thin and use the green and white for layers of flavor
• Fresh cilantro: gives herbal lift look for firm stems and vivid leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the dressing:

In a large bowl whisk together rice vinegar soy sauce sesame oil honey minced garlic grated ginger and red pepper flakes keep whisking until the honey dissolves and the mixture looks glossy

Prepare the cucumbers:

Wash and dry cucumbers slice them very thinly for even marinating use a sharp knife or mandoline for the best texture

Mix and marinate:

Add the cucumber slices to the dressing toss gently with your hands or tongs so all slices get coated every piece should have some shine from the dressing

Let the flavors mingle:

Allow the cucumbers to marinate for at least ten minutes the slices will soak up the tangy dressing while staying crisp do not skip this step as it is where the magic happens

Add garnishes and serve:

Right before serving top with toasted sesame seeds sliced green onions and chopped fresh cilantro this adds a fresh finish and extra crunch

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I love the sesame oil in this salad it adds incredible fragrance and makes the whole bowl taste like something special my family always associates this salad with summer dinners in our backyard and it is now a staple on our picnic table

Storage Tips

This salad is best eaten the day it is made because cucumbers start releasing water after the first few hours If you have leftovers store in an airtight container and pour off extra liquid before enjoying again within a day

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have honey swap with agave or maple syrup for a different sweetness Gluten free soy sauce like tamari works just as well Fresh dill could stand in for cilantro for a different herbal note If you want more crunch try swapping some of the cucumber for thin slices of radish or carrot

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken satay spicy noodles or as part of a spread with dumplings and jasmine rice It is also lovely as a light lunch on toast or spooned onto a turkey sandwich for extra bite

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Cultural and Historical Context

Cucumber salads often appear in Asian cuisine though each region has its own spin Chinese versions might use chili oil while Japanese recipes lean on rice vinegar The quick marinating method allows for bold flavors without a long ferment making it a popular everyday dish

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ How can I keep the cucumbers crisp?

Marinate the cucumber slices just before serving, as prolonged marinating can make them softer. Serve immediately for the best texture.

→ Can I use English cucumbers or other varieties?

Yes, English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work well due to their thin skins and minimal seeds, providing extra crunch.

→ What can I substitute for soy sauce?

Try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative without losing umami depth.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the dressing and chop the garnishes ahead of time. Assemble just before serving.

→ Can I make this salad spicier?

Adjust red pepper flakes to taste, or add finely sliced chili for extra heat.