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Fresh Cucumber Salad with Rice Vinegar

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A quick and easy fresh cucumber salad featuring crisp cucumbers tossed in a tangy rice vinegar dressing with toasted sesame seeds, perfect as a light side dish or snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers (about 14 ounces)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (white, brown, or honey)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Thinly sliced green onions (optional)
  • Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry cucumbers, then slice thinly about 1/8 inch thick using a sharp knife or mandoline.
  2. Place sliced cucumbers in a colander or mixing bowl, sprinkle with salt, toss gently, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
  3. While cucumbers rest, toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sugar, and optional red pepper flakes to make the dressing.
  5. After 10 minutes, gently squeeze cucumbers to remove excess moisture.
  6. Transfer cucumbers to a mixing bowl, pour dressing over, and toss lightly to coat evenly.
  7. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top along with optional sliced green onions or fresh herbs.
  8. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Salting cucumbers and letting them sit draws out excess water to keep the salad crisp. Toast sesame seeds carefully to avoid burning. Adjust sugar and vinegar to taste. Add optional ingredients like red pepper flakes or fresh herbs for variation. Store dressing separately if making ahead and add toasted sesame seeds just before serving for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, rice vinegar, toasted sesame, quick salad, easy side dish, healthy salad, gluten-free, vegetarian

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/fresh-cucumber-salad-with-rice-vinegar-recipe-easy-5-minute-side-dish/