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–+ servings
Spicy Cucumber Salad

Spicy Cucumber Salad: Crisp, Refreshing, and Full of Flavor

A refreshing Spicy Cucumber Salad that combines cool cucumbers with bold flavors for a nutritious dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Marination Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 80
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 small Cucumbers Could substitute with Persian or English cucumbers for a similar texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Use kosher salt for best results.
  • 2 scallions sliced Chives can be a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds Can use toasted sesame seeds for enhanced flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar in a pinch.
  • 2 tablespoons Garlic Chili Oil Adjust the quantity or omit for a milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic enhances the flavor more than pre-minced varieties.
  • 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar White sugar or honey can be used as alternatives.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Tamari can be substituted for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil Can omit or use a neutral oil for a different flavor profile.

Equipment

  • Cutting Board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prep Cucumbers: Start by washing the small cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water. Place them on a cutting board and slice them diagonally into pieces about half an inch thick. For a decorative effect, make additional vertical cuts along each slice.
  2. Salt the Cucumbers: Sprinkle a generous amount of kosher salt over the cucumber slices, ensuring they are evenly coated. Allow the salted cucumbers to marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature.
  3. Rinse: After 15 minutes, rinse the cucumber slices under cold water to remove the excess salt. Pat the cucumbers dry gently with a clean kitchen towel.
  4. Make Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and garlic chili oil. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
  5. Combine: Pour the dressing over the prepared cucumber slices in a large bowl. Gently toss for about 30 seconds, ensuring each cucumber is evenly coated.
  6. Garnish: Top the salad with sliced scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 2gFat: 5gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Add the dressing immediately before serving for best texture. Customize your spice level with garlic chili oil.

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