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Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing

fresh asian cucumber salad - featured image
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A quick and refreshing Asian cucumber salad featuring a nutty sesame ginger dressing, perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Thinly slice 2 large English cucumbers using a sharp knife or mandoline. Place in a large bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Toss gently and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, gently squeeze or pat dry the cucumbers.
  2. In a smaller bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger, 1 small minced garlic clove, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Whisk until smooth and fragrant.
  3. Pour the dressing over the drained cucumbers and toss gently to coat. Add 2 thinly sliced green onions and toss again.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld and cucumbers soak up the dressing while maintaining crunch.
  5. Just before serving, sprinkle 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds on top, toss lightly, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Salting cucumbers and letting them sit for 10 minutes is key to prevent sogginess. Use fresh grated ginger instead of powder for best flavor. Toasted sesame oil provides a smoother, nuttier taste than regular sesame oil. Letting the salad marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor. Drain excess liquid before serving if needed. Dressing can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored refrigerated.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/fresh-asian-cucumber-salad-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-perfect-sesame-ginger-dressing/