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Best Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad with Sesame Recipe

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A refreshing, crunchy cucumber salad with a savory-sweet-tangy sesame dressing that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick side dish. This accidental recipe became a crowd-favorite and is ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers (about 700g total)
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, divided
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for salting cucumbers)
  • Optional garnishes: sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, black sesame seeds, julienned carrots

Instructions

  1. Wash English cucumbers, trim ends, and slice into thin rounds (about ¼-inch thick). Leave skin on.
  2. Place sliced cucumbers in a colander set over a bowl. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and toss gently. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. Rinse cucumbers thoroughly under cold water to remove salt. Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towels.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, combine rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Whisk or shake until sugar is dissolved.
  5. Place dried cucumber slices in a large mixing bowl. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds and toss again.
  6. Let salad sit at room temperature for at least 5 minutes to marinate.
  7. Transfer to serving platter, sprinkle remaining 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds on top, and add optional garnishes. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

Notes

For maximum crunch, do not skip the salting step. This salad is best within the first hour of dressing. For make-ahead, slice and salt cucumbers up to 4 hours ahead, store separately from dressing, and combine just before serving. Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes until golden and fragrant.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, Asian cucumber salad, sesame cucumber salad, crunchy cucumber salad, quick side dish, vegan, gluten-free

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/best-crunchy-asian-cucumber-salad-with-sesame-recipe/