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- Cucumber Specifications - 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced Cucumbers are the star of this salad. Choose firm cucumbers for the best crunch. Thin slices ensure a good balance of flavor and texture. - Condiments and Oils - 1 tablespoon kosher salt - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust for spice level) - 1 teaspoon sugar These condiments create a delicious dressing. The salt draws out moisture from the cucumbers, making them crisp. Sesame oil adds a nutty flavor, while rice vinegar gives a tangy kick. Soy sauce deepens the taste, and chili paste brings the heat. Sugar balances the spice, making it all come together. - Garnishes and Optional Add-ins - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds - 2 green onions, finely chopped - Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish Toasted sesame seeds add a nice crunch and extra flavor. Green onions give a fresh bite, and cilantro adds brightness. You can skip them if you want, but they enhance the dish. Salting the Cucumbers Start by slicing the cucumbers thin. Use two large cucumbers for the best taste. Place the slices in a big bowl. Sprinkle one tablespoon of kosher salt over them. Toss the slices well so the salt coats them evenly. Let them sit for about fifteen minutes. This step helps remove some water, making the salad crunchier. Making the Dressing While the cucumbers sit, grab a small bowl. In it, whisk together two tablespoons of sesame oil, one tablespoon of rice vinegar, one tablespoon of soy sauce, one teaspoon of chili paste, and one teaspoon of sugar. Mix until all the ingredients blend well. This dressing adds a spicy and sweet touch to the salad. Combining Ingredients After fifteen minutes, drain the liquid from the cucumbers. Pat them dry with a paper towel to make sure they stay crisp. Now, add the cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Toss them gently to coat every slice evenly. This ensures each bite is packed with flavor. Mixing in Toppings Next, sprinkle two tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds and two finely chopped green onions over the salad. Gently fold these toppings into the salad. They add extra crunch and flavor, making the dish even more delightful. Serving Suggestions Transfer the salad to a serving dish. For a lovely finish, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. This adds a pop of color and freshness. Serve your spicy sesame cucumber salad right away for the best taste! Adjusting Spiciness To make the salad spicier, you can add more chili paste. Start with a little. Taste the dressing after mixing. If you want more heat, add more chili paste slowly. You can also use fresh chilies if you prefer. They add a nice kick and color. Marinating Time Recommendations Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This time lets the flavors blend well. If you have more time, let it sit for 30 minutes. The longer it sits, the better the taste becomes. Just be careful not to let it sit too long, or the cucumbers can get soggy. Achieving Crunchiness To keep the cucumbers crunchy, salt them first. This step removes extra water. After salting, drain and pat them dry. This process keeps the salad crisp and fresh. You can also use a mandoline to slice the cucumbers thinly. Thin slices add to the crunch. Storing for Freshness Store the salad in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to two days. If you need to prepare it in advance, add the dressing just before serving. This way, the cucumbers stay fresh and crunchy. If any liquid forms, just drain it before serving. {{image_2}} Alternative Vegetables You can mix it up with other crunchy veggies. Try using radishes or bell peppers for a twist. Carrots also add a nice crunch and sweetness. Each choice will give your salad a new flavor. Different Oils and Vinegars If you want a new taste, switch up your oils. Instead of sesame oil, you can use olive oil for a lighter flavor. For vinegars, rice vinegar works well, but you can also try apple cider vinegar. Each oil or vinegar you choose can change the salad's flavor profile. Mild vs. Spicy Versions The spice level can change quite a bit. If you like less heat, use less chili paste. For a spicy kick, add more chili paste or even some fresh chopped chilies. You control the heat! User Modifications Feel free to make this salad your own. Add some garlic or ginger for more flavor. You can also mix in a splash of lime juice for a fresh twist. Each change makes the salad unique to your taste. - Refrigeration Tips Store the salad in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and crunchy. Place it in the fridge right after serving. It will stay good for a few days. Avoid storing it with extra dressing. Excess moisture can make it soggy. - Freezing Considerations I do not recommend freezing this salad. Cucumbers lose their crunch when frozen. If you freeze it, the texture will change. Instead, enjoy this salad fresh. - How Long It Lasts When stored properly, the salad lasts for 3 to 5 days in the fridge. The flavors will get better as it sits. However, it is best to eat it within the first two days for optimal crunch. - Signs of Spoilage Look for any signs of spoilage before eating. If the cucumbers feel slimy, it's time to toss it. A sour smell or discoloration also means it's bad. Always check before enjoying your spicy sesame cucumber salad. Yes, you can use other types of cucumbers. Persian cucumbers work well. They are sweet and crunchy. English cucumbers are also great. They have fewer seeds and taste fresh. For a fun twist, try pickling cucumbers. They add a nice crunch and flavor. Yes, this salad can be gluten-free. Use gluten-free soy sauce, like tamari. Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free. This makes it safe for those with gluten issues. Always check labels to be sure. You can prepare this salad in advance, but with some care. Make the salad a few hours ahead. Keep the dressing separate until you serve it. This helps keep the cucumbers crisp. If you make it too early, the cucumbers may get soggy. Enjoy your fresh and crunchy salad! This blog post covers everything you need to know about making a delicious cucumber salad. We discussed key ingredients, easy step-by-step instructions, and useful tips that enhance flavor and texture. I also shared variations to suit your taste and important storage advice to keep your salad fresh. Remember, cucumber salads can be versatile and quick to prepare. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to make it your own. Trust in your creativity, and you’ll make a salad that delights.

Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad

Discover the refreshing flavors of Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad, the perfect balance of crunch and spice! This vibrant salad combines crisp cucumbers with a zesty dressing of sesame oil, rice vinegar, and chili paste. With just a few simple ingredients and only 20 minutes of prep, it's an ideal side dish for any meal. Click through to explore this delicious recipe and elevate your dining experience with a burst of flavor!
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Ingredients
  

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon kosher salt

2 tablespoons sesame oil

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust for spice level)

1 teaspoon sugar

2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

2 green onions, finely chopped

Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Start by placing the thinly sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and sprinkle them with kosher salt. Toss to coat the cucumbers evenly and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess water.

    Meanwhile, in a separate small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, chili paste, and sugar until well combined.

      After 15 minutes, drain any excess liquid from the cucumbers and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step helps in giving the salad a crunchier texture.

        Add the drained cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing and toss well to combine, ensuring the cucumbers are thoroughly coated in the sauce.

          Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top and gently fold them into the salad.

            Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4