When it comes to salads, there’s nothing quite like the refreshing crunch of cucumbers combined with the vibrant flavors of Asian recipes. Asian cucumber salad is a delightful dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a healthy and hydrating option, especially during hot summer months. In this blog post, we’ll take you through a simple yet flavorful Asian cucumber salad recipe that you can easily whip up in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:
- 2 large cucumbers (English cucumbers work best)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dan Dan Sauce
- 2-3 tablespoons of rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- A handful of fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking!
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Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. If you’re using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them and remove the seeds for a milder taste. However, English cucumbers can be used with the skin on. Slice the cucumbers thinly, either with a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, for uniformity.
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Season the Cucumbers:
Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle them with salt. Toss gently to evenly distribute the salt. This step helps draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, ensuring that your salad isn’t too watery. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes.
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Prepare the Dressing:
While the cucumbers are resting, it’s time to create a flavorful dressing. In a separate bowl, combine the minced garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, Dan Dan Sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until the sugar has dissolved. This dressing strikes a perfect balance between tangy, savory, and a hint of spiciness.
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Drain and Rinse Cucumbers:
After the resting period, you’ll notice that the cucumbers have released some liquid. Drain this excess moisture and give the cucumbers a quick rinse under cold running water. This step helps remove excess salt.
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Assemble the Salad:
Return the cucumbers to the mixing bowl. Add the sliced red onion and fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss everything together until well-coated. Be sure to do this just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the cucumbers.
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Garnish and Serve:
To add a final touch of elegance, sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the salad for a delightful crunch and visual appeal. Serve your Asian cucumber salad chilled, and enjoy the burst of flavors with each crisp bite.
Variations and Tips
- Feel free to customize your Asian cucumber salad by adding ingredients like thinly sliced red bell pepper, shredded carrots, or even some sliced green onions.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- For a sweeter twist, you can substitute honey for sugar in the dressing.
- Make this salad ahead of time, but add the dressing just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.
Conclusion
This Asian cucumber salad recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly refreshing and packed with flavor. It’s a perfect side dish for a summer barbecue, a light lunch, or a healthy snack any time of the year. With its balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, this salad is sure to satisfy your cravings for something delicious and refreshing. So, why not give it a try and experience the joy of Asian recipes in every bite?
