Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of flavor in every bite! Our Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad is not just a side dish; it's a refreshing experience that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Asia. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this zesty salad that perfectly balances the crispness of cucumbers with a savory, spicy dressing. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick and healthy addition to your meal, this salad is sure to impress. Dive into this delightful recipe and discover how easy it is to elevate your culinary skills!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Start by preparing the cucumbers. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even marination.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl. This will be the base of your salad.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, and chili flakes. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved. This will create a flavorful dressing for your salad.
- Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers in the mixing bowl. Gently toss the cucumbers to ensure they are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add the sliced green onions to the bowl. Toss again to incorporate the green onions into the salad.
- Let the salad sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the cucumbers to absorb the flavors of the dressing. This step enhances the taste and makes the salad more refreshing.
- Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual bowls.
- For garnish, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the salad. This adds a nice crunch and enhances the presentation.
- Serve the Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or appetizer. Enjoy!
Tips
- Choose the Right Cucumbers: For the best texture, use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers, as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. This will enhance the crunchiness of your salad.
- Uniform Slices: When slicing the cucumbers, aim for uniform thickness. This ensures that they marinate evenly and provides a consistent crunch in every bite.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili flakes. Conversely, for an extra kick, feel free to add more to suit your taste.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps the cucumbers soak in the delicious dressing.
- Garnish Creatively: Don’t stop at sesame seeds! Consider adding chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.
- Serve Chilled: For an even more refreshing experience, chill the salad in the refrigerator for a short time before serving. This makes it a perfect dish for hot summer days!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 35kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
