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Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad with Zesty Sesame Ginger Dressing

Asian cucumber salad - featured image
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A quick, refreshing Asian cucumber salad featuring crisp cucumbers and a bright, balanced sesame ginger dressing. Perfect for warm weather and easy to prepare in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced (about ⅛ inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • A small handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the English cucumbers. Slice them as thin as possible, about ⅛ inch (3 mm) thick. Optionally peel partially for texture variation. Place slices in a mixing bowl. (5 minutes)
  2. In a small bowl or jar, combine toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and red chili flakes if using. Whisk or shake until well combined. (3 minutes)
  3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices. Toss gently with tongs or salad servers to coat evenly without bruising the cucumbers. (2 minutes)
  4. Thinly slice green onions and chop cilantro if using. Sprinkle both along with toasted sesame seeds over the salad. Toss lightly to distribute. (2 minutes)
  5. Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. It can be served immediately as well. (10 minutes resting)

Notes

Slice cucumbers very thinly and uniformly for best texture and flavor absorption. Use fresh ginger instead of powdered for brightness. Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be gentle when tossing to keep cucumbers crisp. Dressing can be made up to 2 days ahead and shaken before use. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; toss gently before serving again.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, Asian salad, sesame ginger dressing, quick salad, healthy side dish, vegan salad, gluten-free salad

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/fresh-asian-cucumber-salad-recipe-easy-zesty-sesame-ginger-dressing/