Asian Cucumber Salad Sesame (Printable)

Crisp cucumbers combined with sesame and tangy rice vinegar for a fresh, vibrant side dish.

# What You 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 or tamari
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, optional
13 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

# 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 any accumulated liquid.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, ginger, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves completely.
03 - Add the dressing and sliced green onions to the prepared cucumbers. Toss gently to coat evenly without bruising the cucumber slices.
04 - Transfer to a serving bowl. Top with toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, and red pepper flakes if desired.
05 - Serve immediately for crisp texture, or refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required
  • Fresh, crisp cucumbers provide a satisfying crunch in every bite
  • The sesame-ginger dressing is perfectly balanced between tangy and savory
  • Naturally vegan and gluten-free when using tamari
  • Makes an excellent side dish for Asian-inspired meals or summer barbecues
  • Healthy and low in calories while still being incredibly flavorful
02 -
  • Toast your own sesame seeds in a dry pan for a deeper, nuttier flavor
  • Use a vegetable peeler to create cucumber ribbons for an elegant presentation
  • Make the dressing ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week
  • For a more intense garlic flavor, let the minced garlic sit in the vinegar for a few minutes before adding other ingredients
  • Double-check condiment labels for hidden allergens if serving to guests with dietary restrictions
  • Chill the serving bowl in advance for an extra-refreshing presentation
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