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Viral Cucumber Salad

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A quick, refreshing salad with a tangy dressing that pairs well with heavy mains or spicy dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large cucumbers (English or garden cucumbers)
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (or honey/maple syrup)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic paste)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers and trim the ends. Slice them thinly—about 1/8-inch thick.
  2. Put the cucumber slices in a medium bowl. Sprinkle a small pinch of salt and let sit for 5 minutes, then blot with paper towels.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until the sugar dissolves.
  4. Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices and toss gently to coat every piece.
  5. Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes to meld flavors, or chill for 30 minutes.
  6. Before serving, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top.

Notes

If cucumbers are very seedy, halve and spoon out seeds before slicing. For a gluten-free version, substitute tamari for soy sauce.

Nutrition