Asian Cucumber Salad Sesame (Print Version)

Crisp cucumbers with sesame and tangy rice vinegar create a refreshing, light side for any meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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
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
13 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

# How to Make It:

01 - Place 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 sugar dissolves completely.
03 - Add dressing and green onions to cucumbers. Toss gently to combine evenly.
04 - Transfer to serving bowl and top with toasted sesame seeds, cilantro, and red pepper flakes.
05 - Serve immediately or chill for 10-15 minutes to enhance flavors.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required
  • Perfectly balanced flavors of tangy, savory, and nutty notes
  • Naturally vegan and gluten-free when using tamari
  • Light and refreshing, ideal for warm weather or as a palate cleanser
  • Uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients
  • Easily customizable with optional heat and herbs
02 -
  • Always drain the cucumbers thoroughly after salting to prevent diluting the dressing
  • Make the dressing ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
  • For meal prep, keep cucumbers and dressing separate until ready to serve
  • Adjust chili flakes for desired spice level—start with less and add more to taste
  • Use the freshest cucumbers you can find for the crispest texture
  • Double-check condiment labels for hidden allergens, especially if using store-bought soy sauce
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