Description
A refreshing and crunchy Spicy Cucumber Salad with Sesame and Garlic, bursting with zesty heat, nutty sesame aroma, and a perfect balance of spice, tang, and crispness. Quick to prepare and a versatile side that pairs well with various cuisines, this light and healthy salad is perfect for a snack or complementing meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 fresh, firm cucumbers (preferably English cucumbers)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash and dry the cucumbers. Slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons as preferred. Place the slices in a large mixing bowl to prepare for the dressing.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red chili flakes until well combined, creating a fiery, tangy dressing.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure even coating. Add sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, mixing them in to add flavor and texture.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to retain their crunch, softening the garlic bite. Serve chilled for the best taste.
Notes
- Use English cucumbers for thinner skin and less bitterness—no need to peel.
- Lightly toast sesame seeds in a dry pan to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Slice cucumbers evenly to help the salad marinate uniformly.
- Adjust red chili flakes gradually to your desired spice level.
- Serve the salad cold to maintain its refreshing crunch and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg