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Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy Zesty Sesame Ginger Dressing

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A quick and easy fresh Asian cucumber salad with a zesty sesame ginger dressing that is light, crunchy, and packed with flavor. Perfect as a refreshing side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and thinly slice 2 large English cucumbers into rounds or half-moons about 1/8-inch thick. If cucumbers are watery, lightly salt and let sit in a colander for 10 minutes, then pat dry.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger, 1 minced garlic clove, 3 tablespoons rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup until well combined. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  3. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl. Add 2 thinly sliced green onions and toss gently to mix.
  4. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every slice.
  5. Refrigerate the salad for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld and cucumbers soak up the dressing while staying crisp.
  6. Just before serving, sprinkle 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds over the salad for extra texture and flavor.

Notes

Use fresh ginger for best flavor. If cucumbers are watery, salt and drain before mixing to avoid sogginess. Refrigerate before serving for best crunch. Toast sesame seeds for enhanced aroma. Adjust dressing sweetness or saltiness to taste. Can substitute tamari for soy sauce to keep gluten-free and maple syrup for honey to keep vegan.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, Asian salad, sesame ginger dressing, fresh salad, quick salad, healthy side dish, gluten-free, vegan option

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/fresh-asian-cucumber-salad-recipe-easy-zesty-sesame-ginger-dressing/