Description
A refreshing and tangy Asian cucumber salad featuring crisp cucumbers, a savory garlic and chili-infused dressing, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Perfect as a light side dish or quick appetizer, this salad highlights fresh flavors with a delightful kick of spice and nuttiness.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad
- 1 cucumber (about 8 oz or 226 g)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
For the Dressing
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon Korean chili powder (or regular chili powder)
- 1 teaspoon chili oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
Garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnishing
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumber: Rinse the cucumber thoroughly and slice it into thin or bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle the slices evenly with salt and gently toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Drain excess water: After chilling, drain the saltwater from the cucumber slices by placing them in a colander or using a paper towel to pat dry, ensuring a less watery salad.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, sugar, chili powder, chili oil, and sesame oil. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Toss the salad with dressing: In a mixing bowl, add the drained cucumber slices and pour the dressing over them. Toss gently to evenly coat all pieces.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer the salad to serving dishes, sprinkle generously with sesame seeds, and serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Notes
- I recommend using Persian, burpless, or Japanese cucumbers—they have thin skins and fewer seeds, making them ideal for salads.
- Sitting with salt helps draw out excess moisture, preventing the salad from becoming watery.
- Choose apple cider vinegar or rice wine vinegar for a milder tang, adjusting based on your preference.
- Sesame oil is key for adding the authentic nutty flavor—do not skip it!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 100g)
- Calories: 60 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
