Quick and Easy Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad
The Quick and Easy Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad is a delightful twist on the traditional seaweed salad you’d find at Japanese restaurants, utilizing the freshness of cucumbers instead. This dish brings a refreshing flavor profile, perfect for summertime or whenever you crave a chilled side dish. Most importantly, this Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad is both quick to make and incredibly satisfying.
Yield and Preparation Time
Yield: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Additional Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients for Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad
– 2 English cucumbers, peeled
– 1 teaspoon salt, divided, or to taste
– 2 tablespoons garlic-seasoned rice wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– ¼ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions for Making Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Begin by spiralizing or slicing the cucumbers into thin strands or rounds. If you don’t own a spiralizer, you can use a peeler to create long, thin ribbons.
Step 2: Place the sliced cucumbers in a strainer and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Toss them gently and let them rest for about 10-15 minutes to drain excess water. This step enhances the crispiness of the cucumbers.
Step 3: Meanwhile, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, mix the garlic-seasoned rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
Step 4: Rinse the cucumbers under cold water to remove excess salt, then pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Transfer them to a mixing bowl.
Step 5: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers. Toss until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 6: Finally, sprinkle with the toasted sesame seeds for an added nutty flavor. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Optional Healthier Cooking Method
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider reducing the amount of sesame oil and replacing it with olive oil for heart-healthy benefits. Additionally, opt for low-sodium soy sauce to manage your sodium intake without sacrificing taste.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This refreshing salad isn’t just delightful for its taste; it’s also nourishing. Cucumbers are incredibly hydrating, rich in vitamins such as A, B, and C, and contain the antioxidant properties that enhance your immune defense. Therefore, integrating this delightful dish into your meal plan can be both enjoyable and healthy.
Embrace the vibrant taste of this Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad by preparing it for picnics, as a side dish, or as a light midday snack. To sum up, this salad is a versatile and easy-to-prepare recipe that complements many main dishes. For more information on the health benefits of cucumbers, visit the Healthline cucumber benefits page.
In conclusion, the Quick and Easy Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad offers simplicity and taste in perfect harmony. Try this delightful recipe today, and enjoy the refreshing burst of flavors that are reminiscent of seaweed salads.