Asian Spicy Cucumber Salad

Asian Spicy Cucumber Salad

Introduction

Asian Spicy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish that combines the crispness of cucumbers with a tangy and spicy dressing. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for hot days or as a side to many Asian meals. This salad bursts with flavors, making it a great addition to your dining table.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Asian Spicy Cucumber Salad is not only simple, but it’s also a fantastic way to add a crunchy, nutritious dish to your meals. This salad is quick to prepare, light on calories, and bursting with taste. The unique blend of spicy, salty, and sour flavors creates a delightful contrast that is sure to excite your taste buds. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use fresh cucumbers when they are in season!

How to Make Asian Spicy Cucumber Salad

To create this zesty salad, you’ll need a few fresh ingredients and spices. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious Asian Spicy Cucumber Salad.

Ingredients:

• 2 English cucumbers (or 4–5 Persian cucumbers)
• 1 tsp Salt (for drawing out moisture)
• 2 tbsp Toasted sesame seeds (divided, some for garnish)
• 2 Green onions (thinly sliced)
• 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro (optional, roughly chopped)
• 3 tbsp Rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
• 2 tsp Sugar (or honey for natural sweetener)
• 1-2 tbsp Chili oil (adjust to heat preference)
• 1 tbsp Sesame oil
• 2 Garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp Fresh ginger (grated)
• 1-2 tsp Red pepper flakes (or Korean gochugaru)

Directions:

1. Prep: Slice cucumbers, salt them, and drain.
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2. Dressing: Make the spicy dressing.
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3. Rinse: Rinse and dry cucumbers.
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4. Combine: Toss cucumbers with dressing and green onions.
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5. Chill: Chill for 10 minutes before serving.
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6. Garnish: Garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro.
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How to Serve Asian Spicy Cucumber Salad

Serve this salad fresh as a side dish with grilled meats or as part of a larger Asian meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light snack.

How to Store Asian Spicy Cucumber Salad

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad is best eaten within a day or two, as cucumbers will lose their crispness over time.

Tips to Make Asian Spicy Cucumber Salad

• Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best texture.
• Adjust the chili oil and red pepper flakes according to your heat level.
• For even more flavor, let the salad marinate for a bit longer before serving.

Variation

You can add sliced carrots or bell peppers for more color and crunch. Some people also like to include a splash of lime juice or replace rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different tang.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh to keep the cucumbers crispy.

2. What if I don’t like spicy food?
   You can reduce or skip the chili oil and red pepper flakes for a milder version.

3. Is this salad vegan?
   Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making it a great option for vegan diets!

Enjoy making and sharing your Asian Spicy Cucumber Salad, and experience the refreshing crunch paired with a delightful kick!