Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Asian cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors and refreshing dishes that awaken the palate. From the spicy heat of Szechuan peppers to the delicate sweetness of Thai coconut milk, the diversity of ingredients creates a culinary tapestry that is both complex and inviting. Among these delightful offerings, the Crispy Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad stands out as a perfect side dish or appetizer, embodying the essence of freshness and balance that characterizes much of Asian cooking.

Discover the delightful and refreshing Crispy Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad, a perfect side dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. This salad combines fresh cucumbers with a tangy dressing of rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger for an invigorating taste. Garnished with green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds, it offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness that's ideal for summer gatherings, BBQs, or light meals.

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Ingredients

2 large cucumbers

1/4 cup rice vinegar

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 teaspoons sugar

1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

2 tablespoons sesame seeds (white or toasted)

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 green onions, finely chopped

Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Cucumbers: Start by washing the cucumbers. Slice them thinly (about 1/4 inch) using a sharp knife or a mandoline for uniformity. If using English cucumbers, you may leave the skin on; for regular cucumbers, you can peel them if desired.

Salt the Cucumbers: Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which will enhance their crunchiness. After 15 minutes, gently pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are well combined.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the salted cucumbers with the dressing until they are thoroughly coated. Add in the sesame seeds and chopped green onions, mixing gently to ensure even distribution.

Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give it a gentle toss and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired. Enjoy your refreshing Asian cucumber salad!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 35 min | 4 servings