Asian Cucumber Salad

A Refreshing Burst of Flavor: The Ultimate Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe

Looking for a light, refreshing, and flavorful side dish to accompany your next Asian-inspired meal? Look no further than this simple yet incredibly delicious Asian cucumber salad recipe. It's a perfect blend of crunchy cucumbers, tangy dressing, and a sprinkle of aromatic herbs and spices that will tantalize your taste buds.

This versatile salad can be enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a light lunch option. It's packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and satisfying choice. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and cooking time.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Cucumbers: Choose crisp, firm cucumbers for the best texture. English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work well.
• Red Onion: Adds a sharp and slightly sweet flavor to the salad.
• Fresh Herbs: Cilantro, mint, or a combination of both provide a vibrant and refreshing aroma.
• Soy Sauce: The base of the dressing, adding a salty and savory flavor.
• Rice Vinegar: Creates a tangy and slightly sweet note.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty and slightly smoky flavor.
• Sugar: Balances out the acidity of the dressing.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Provides a touch of heat, optional.
• RA Seasonings Everything Bagel: For added texture and visual appeal, optional.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash and peel the cucumbers. Thinly slice or julienne them. If you prefer a less watery salad, salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry before assembling the salad.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped fresh herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with RA Seasonings Everything Bagel before serving.

Tips for Success

• Customize the Dressing: Adjust the amount of sugar and red pepper flakes to your taste preferences.
• Add Crunch: For extra texture, you can add toasted sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or chopped toasted almonds.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like basil, dill, or even a sprinkle of dried oregano.
• Serve with a Variety of Dishes: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or tofu. It also makes a refreshing accompaniment to Asian-inspired noodle dishes, rice bowls, or spring rolls.

Enjoy this simple and delicious Asian cucumber salad! It's the perfect way to brighten up any meal and satisfy your cravings for a refreshing and flavorful side dish. Happy cooking!