Sesame Cucumber Salad

Sesame Cucumber Salad

This Sesame Cucumber Salad offers a refreshing and tangy flavor perfect for a light side dish. It's a delightful blend of crisp cucumbers, fragrant sesame oil, and a hint of spice.

Side

Prep Time

15 min

Servings

4

Sesame Cucumber Salad is a popular dish in many Asian-inspired cuisines, cherished for its light, crisp texture and vibrant flavors. The combination of cool cucumbers and nutty sesame oil creates a refreshing harmony, complemented by the mild heat of chili flakes. Traditionally, this salad serves as a palate cleanser or a refreshing side during warm weather. The preparation involves peeling and slicing the cucumbers to achieve the perfect bite-sized pieces that soak in the dressing evenly. Peeling helps to soften the texture and removes any bitterness, especially from the seeds, enhancing the salad's overall taste. Tossing with seasoned rice vinegar adds a lovely acidity that brightens the dish. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, steamed fish, or as part of a multi-dish meal featuring Asian flavors. For an extra aromatic touch, the fresh basil leaves lend a subtle herbaceous note, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that elevate any meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium Cucumber
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 2 tsp Sesame Seed Oil
  • 2 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
  • 6 Basil Leaves
  • 0.5 tsp Red Chilli Flakes
  • 2 tsp Sesame Seed

Instructions

Start by preparing the cucumbers: gently peel each cucumber to remove the outer skin, which can sometimes be bitter or tough. Once peeled, slice each cucumber lengthwise into quarters. If the cucumber seeds seem bitter or watery, carefully scrape them out and set aside to maintain a crisp texture. Next, cut these cucumber quarters crosswise into bite-sized pieces, about half an inch thick, ensuring uniformity for even flavor absorption. Place the freshly cut cucumber pieces into a spacious serving bowl to accommodate tossing. Sprinkle the cucumbers evenly with half a teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for a few minutes to draw out excess moisture, which keeps the salad crisp. Then, drizzle two teaspoons of fragrant sesame seed oil over the cucumbers, followed by two tablespoons of seasoned rice vinegar, which lends a delightful tang. If you have fresh basil, tear six basil leaves into smaller pieces and scatter them over the salad for an extra layer of aroma and flavor. Add half a teaspoon of red chili flakes to bring a gentle kick of heat. Using tongs or salad forks, gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring every cucumber piece is coated with the flavorful dressing. Finally, sprinkle two teaspoons of toasted sesame seeds on top to add a lovely nutty crunch. For best results, chill the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully. This refreshing Sesame Cucumber Salad is perfect as a cooling side to spicy dishes or as a light snack on its own.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4

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