Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

In the realm of refreshing salads, Crisp & Zesty Cucumber Delight stands out as a vibrant and satisfying dish that perfectly balances the crunch of fresh cucumbers with a tangy dressing. This salad is a quintessential choice for warm weather, making it a go-to recipe for picnics, barbecues, and light lunches. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also incorporates wholesome ingredients that enhance both flavor and nutrition. Cucumber Delight is the epitome of summer on a plate, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes that are sure to impress your guests.

Elevate your summer meals with Crisp & Zesty Cucumber Delight, a refreshing salad that combines crunchy cucumbers with a tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics or light lunches, this salad boasts health benefits and vibrant flavors. Learn about choosing the best cucumber varieties, explore customizable ingredients, and discover how to create a delicious dressing that brings everything together. Enjoy this salad as a side or a light meal that's sure to impress!

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Ingredients

2 large cucumbers (preferably English)

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon sugar or honey

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

2 green onions, finely chopped

Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Instructions

Prepare the Cucumbers: Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice each cucumber in half lengthwise, then scrape out the seeds using a spoon for a lighter salad. Cut each half into thin half-moon slices.

Salt the Cucumbers: Place the cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This will prevent the salad from becoming soggy. After this, rinse the cucumbers under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the salted cucumbers, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently until all cucumber slices are well coated.

Chill & Serve: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh cilantro (if using) and a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat right before serving. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a side dish or a light snack!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | Serves 4