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Crispy Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad

crispy crunchy asian cucumber salad - featured image
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A 5-minute no-cook salad featuring thin-sliced English cucumbers that are salted to ensure maximum crunch, then tossed in a tangy, nutty sesame dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 English cucumbers (or Persian cucumbers), sliced into thin half-moons
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher salt (for salting)
  • 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar (unseasoned)
  • 1 tablespoon Soy sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame oil (toasted)
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar
  • 2 cloves Fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Red chili flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 Green onions, chopped (or fresh cilantro)

Instructions

  1. Wash and pat dry the cucumbers. Slice them into thin half-moons (approx. 1/8 inch thick) and place in a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Sprinkle the kosher salt evenly over the cucumber slices and toss to coat. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  3. Pour the cucumbers into a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to remove excess salt. Squeeze the cucumbers gently with your hands to remove as much water as possible; they should feel firm and dry.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and minced garlic until the sugar is dissolved.
  5. Place the drained cucumbers back into the mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over them and add chili flakes if using. Toss to coat evenly.
  6. Let the salad sit for at least 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and green onions or cilantro before serving.

Notes

The key to this recipe is the salting step. Do not skip squeezing the water out of the cucumbers, as this ensures the crisp texture and prevents a watery salad. For best results, use cold cucumbers and toasted sesame seeds. This salad can be made up to 2 hours in advance but should not be frozen.

Nutrition

Keywords: Asian cucumber salad, quick salad, vegan side dish, gluten-free recipe, crunchy salad, sesame dressing, meal prep, healthy snacks

Find it online: https://miratable.com/crispy-crunchy-asian-cucumber-salad-5-minute-easy-recipe/