Description
A refreshing and spicy Asian Cucumber Salad featuring crisp cucumbers tossed in a flavorful blend of garlic, apple cider vinegar, sugar, chili powders, and oils, garnished with toasted sesame seeds. Perfect as a light appetizer or side dish that comes together quickly with a cool and tangy kick.
Ingredients
Cucumber
- 1 cucumber (about 8 oz. / 226 g)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Dressing
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon Korean chili powder (or regular chili powder)
- 1 teaspoon chili oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
Garnish
- Sesame seeds (for garnishing)
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumber: Rinse the cucumber thoroughly under cold water and slice it into bite-sized pieces. Place the slices in a bowl and sprinkle with 3/4 teaspoon salt. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the salt is evenly distributed. Cover and chill the cucumber in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to allow it to soften and release excess moisture. After chilling, drain off the accumulated salty water to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, combine the minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Korean chili powder (or regular chili powder if preferred), chili oil, and sesame oil. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely and the ingredients are well incorporated, creating a balanced spicy and tangy dressing.
- Toss the salad: Add the drained cucumber slices to the dressing bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly with the flavorful mixture, ensuring all slices absorb the spicy, sweet, and tangy notes.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer the dressed cucumber salad to a serving dish and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds for a nutty aroma and crunch. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture and vibrant flavors at their freshest.
Notes
- You can adjust the chili powder and chili oil quantities to suit your desired spice level.
- For a more intense garlic flavor, finely grate the garlic or use roasted garlic.
- Chilling the cucumber longer will make it softer, but draining the salt water is important to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a light side dish in Asian-inspired meals.
- For a vegan version, ensure the chili oil does not contain any animal-derived ingredients.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
