Tangy Shaken Asian Cucumber Salad (Printable Version)

Crisp cucumbers tossed in a tangy Asian dressing for a refreshing, light side or snack.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
02 - 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
03 - 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional)

→ Dressing

04 - 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
05 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
06 - 2 teaspoons sesame oil
07 - 1 tablespoon sugar or maple syrup
08 - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
09 - 1 garlic clove, minced
10 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

→ Garnish

11 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
12 - Extra toasted sesame seeds, to taste

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Place the thinly sliced cucumbers, spring onions, and chili (if using) into a large jar with a tight-fitting lid or a large salad bowl.
02 - Whisk rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and toasted sesame seeds in a small bowl until the sugar is fully dissolved.
03 - Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture.
04 - Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to evenly coat the vegetables, or toss thoroughly if using a bowl.
05 - Allow the salad to rest for 5 minutes to develop flavor.
06 - Sprinkle chopped cilantro and additional toasted sesame seeds over the salad before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes less time to make than ordering takeout, and tastes better too.
  • The shake method means no extra dishes and perfectly coated cucumbers every time.
  • You can adjust the heat, sweetness, and tang to match your mood or the meal.
  • It stays crisp in the fridge for a day, making it ideal for meal prep or last-minute guests.
02 -
  • Do not skip the resting time, even 5 minutes transforms the texture and flavor.
  • If your cucumbers are watery, pat them dry with a towel before dressing or they will dilute the sauce.
  • Shake or toss gently if you want to keep the slices intact, or go hard if you prefer a more broken-down, marinated style.
03 -
  • Use a mandoline to get paper-thin cucumber slices quickly and safely, just watch your fingers.
  • Toast your own sesame seeds in a dry pan for 2 minutes, the freshly toasted flavor is incomparable.
  • If you love garlic, add an extra clove, it mellows beautifully in the vinegar.
  • For a spicier kick, muddle the chili slices with a bit of the dressing before adding it to the jar.
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