Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad
introduction
Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad is a refreshingly zingy dish that perfectly embodies the bold flavors of Asian cuisine. This vibrant salad combines crisp cucumbers with a medley of aromatic ingredients, creating a delightful side dish that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The unique spiral cut of the cucumbers not only adds visual appeal but also maximizes the absorption of the flavorful dressing.
why make this recipe
This Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad is an excellent choice for several reasons. First, it’s quick to prepare—perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a spontaneous get-together. Second, it is a healthy dish that is low in calories yet high in flavor, making it an ideal complement to heavier mains. Lastly, the salad brings a touch of excitement to your plate with its tangy, spicy, and refreshing taste, appealing to those looking to explore bold flavors.
how to make Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad
Creating Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad is straightforward and fun! Follow these simple steps for a delicious result.
Ingredients :
- 6-8 Persian cucumbers
- 2 tbsp salt
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 green onion
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp gochugaru
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Directions :
- Start placing a chopstick on either side of the cucumber. Make 45-degree slices into it; the chopsticks should help ensure you don’t slice all the way through.
- Next, rotate the cucumber to the other side and make straight 90-degree cuts through it. You should be left with a spiral shape!
- Add all the spiral cucumbers to a bowl and sprinkle the salt over them. The purpose of the salt is to draw out as much moisture as possible from the cucumbers. Massage the salt in between the slices and let them sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, mince your garlic and thinly slice the green onion.
- Quickly rinse the salt off the cucumbers and drain. It may seem counterintuitive to wet the cucumbers after drawing out moisture, but rinsing them briefly prevents reabsorption of water. Pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel.
- Add the garlic, green onion, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, gochugaru, brown sugar, and sesame seeds to the bowl. Massage well into the cucumbers.
- They are best enjoyed right away while still crunchy. Enjoy!
how to serve Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad
Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad is best served immediately to retain its crunchiness. Serve it as a side dish to grilled meats, stir-fries, or alongside Asian-inspired meals. It also makes a great topping for rice bowls or a refreshing appetizer that can be enjoyed on its own.
how to store Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad
If you have leftovers, store the Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s important to note that the cucumbers may lose their crispness over time. They are best consumed within a day or two for optimal texture and flavor.
tips to make Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad
- Use Persian cucumbers for the best crunch, but English cucumbers can work if needed.
- Feel free to adjust the level of gochugaru to suit your spice preference.
- For an added punch, consider incorporating other vegetables such as thinly sliced carrots or bell peppers.
- Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint for a fresh twist.
variation
For a more substantial salad, consider adding proteins such as sliced grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. You can also toss in them with mixed greens or other vegetables to create a more hearty salad that still maintains that refreshing, spicy flavor. Enjoy exploring this fun and versatile recipe!