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Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Sesame Oil and Ginger

Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad - featured image
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A refreshing and crunchy Asian cucumber salad featuring toasted sesame oil and fresh ginger, perfect as a light side dish or palate cleanser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry cucumbers. Slice into very thin rounds about 1/8 inch thick using a mandoline or sharp knife. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon sea salt over cucumber slices and toss gently. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out moisture. Drain off any liquid.
  3. Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, combine toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, grated ginger, minced garlic (if using), and red pepper flakes. Whisk or shake until blended.
  5. Gently squeeze cucumbers with hands or press with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
  6. Pour dressing over cucumbers, add sliced green onions, and toss gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
  7. Refrigerate salad for at least 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Use toasted sesame oil for authentic nutty flavor. Thin cucumber slices are key for texture and flavor absorption. Salt cucumbers to draw out moisture and prevent sogginess. Toast sesame seeds just before use for best aroma. Dressing can be adjusted to taste. Refrigerate salad for at least 10 minutes before serving. Store cucumbers and dressing separately to keep salad crisp longer.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, Asian salad, sesame oil, ginger, quick salad, healthy side dish, summer salad

Find it online: https://emmastirs.com/fresh-asian-cucumber-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-with-sesame-oil-and-ginger/