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Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing

Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad - featured image
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A quick, fresh, and flavorful Asian cucumber salad featuring a tangy sesame ginger dressing. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or a light, refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice the English cucumbers into thin rounds about 1/8 inch thick using a sharp knife or mandoline. If cucumbers are very watery, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, toss, and let sit in a colander for 10 minutes to drain excess moisture. Pat dry before proceeding.
  2. Thinly slice 1/4 cup red onion and chop fresh cilantro. Set aside.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk or shake vigorously until well combined.
  4. Place cucumbers, red onion, and cilantro in a mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for crunch and nutty flavor. Serve immediately for best crisp texture or chill for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld. Toss again before serving if chilled.

Notes

If cucumbers are watery, salt and drain before mixing to avoid sogginess. Dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Use tamari for gluten-free soy sauce option. Toast sesame seeds for extra flavor. Serve immediately or chill for 15-20 minutes to meld flavors. Keep dressing separate if storing leftovers to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/fresh-asian-cucumber-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-sesame-ginger-dressing-guide/