Description
A quick and refreshing cucumber salad tossed in a nutty sesame dressing, ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect as a light side dish or a crisp lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large English cucumbers (about 16 oz / 450g)
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt to taste
- Optional: sliced radishes, fresh cilantro or mint leaves
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons. Toss with a pinch of salt and let sit in a colander for 5 minutes to draw out excess water.
- While cucumbers rest, toast sesame seeds in a small dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust sweetness or tang to taste.
- Pat cucumbers dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Place in a large bowl, add sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
- Pour dressing over cucumbers and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to let flavors meld.
Notes
Salt cucumbers and drain excess water to avoid sogginess. Use toasted sesame oil for best flavor. Fresh garlic is essential. Toast sesame seeds lightly for crunch and aroma. Adjust sweetness and tang to your preference. Store leftovers in airtight container up to 2 days; drain excess liquid before serving again. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup per serv
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
Keywords: cucumber salad, sesame dressing, quick salad, refreshing side, easy salad recipe, vegan salad, gluten-free salad