Introduction
This spicy sesame cucumber salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With crunchy cucumber slices dressed in a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce, it offers the perfect balance of heat, acidity, and umami. It’s quick to make and an excellent addition to any table, whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, rice dishes, or enjoying it on its own.
Ingredients
To make this flavorful cucumber salad, gather the following:
- Cucumbers (Persian or English cucumbers preferred): 2-3, sliced
- Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon, toasted
- Chili Flakes or Red Pepper Flakes: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Honey or Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Fresh Cilantro or Green Onions: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)
Preparation Method
1. Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash and Slice: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry. Slice them into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. If desired, you can lightly salt the cucumbers and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry for extra crunch.
2. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, chili flakes, and honey or sugar (if using). Mix until well combined.
3. Combine and Marinate
- Place the sliced cucumbers into a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers, tossing gently to coat every slice evenly.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro or green onions (if using) over the top and mix again.
4. Chill and Serve
- For best results, let the cucumber salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing and zesty side dish.
Benefits of This Salad
- Low in Calories, High in Hydration: Cucumbers are over 95% water, making this dish an excellent option for hydration and calorie-conscious eating.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes creates a burst of flavor with every bite.
- Quick to Prepare: This salad requires minimal prep and is ready in minutes.
- Rich in Nutrients: The addition of sesame seeds provides healthy fats and minerals, while garlic and chili offer antioxidants and potential health benefits.
Tips for Customization
- Adjust Heat: Increase or decrease chili flakes to suit your spice preference.
- Add Crunch: Include thinly sliced carrots or radishes for added texture.
- Sweeten It Up: If you prefer a sweeter note, add a touch more honey or sugar.
- Garnish Ideas: Top with crushed peanuts or cashews for extra crunch and flavor depth.
Conclusion
This spicy sesame cucumber salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together crunchy cucumbers and a bold dressing in perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking to spice up a meal or serve a refreshing snack, this salad is sure to delight with its quick preparation and balanced flavors.