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Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Sesame Ginger Dressing

fresh asian cucumber salad - featured image
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A crunchy and refreshing Asian cucumber salad tossed in a silky, slightly sticky homemade sesame ginger dressing, perfect as a light side dish for warm days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium English cucumbers (thin-skinned and seedless preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, finely sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons about 1/8-inch (3mm) thick. Peel part of the skin off in stripes if tough.
  2. Place sliced cucumbers into a colander, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and toss gently. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together toasted sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, freshly grated ginger, and minced garlic (if using) until well combined and slightly emulsified. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to taste.
  4. Transfer drained cucumbers to a mixing bowl. Add sliced green onions and red pepper flakes if desired. Pour dressing over cucumbers and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every slice.
  5. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Just before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top.

Notes

Salting cucumbers before mixing is key to keeping them crisp and avoiding sogginess. Use fresh ginger grated finely for best flavor. Let salad rest at least 10 minutes after tossing to meld flavors. Store dressing separately if making ahead to keep cucumbers crisp. Use tamari for gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Optional add-ins include fresh chili, cilantro, mint, radishes, shredded carrots, or crushed peanuts.

Nutrition

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

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