Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
- 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the sliced cucumbers, cubed tofu, and chopped scallions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame seeds, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber and tofu mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Total fat: 7g
- Saturated fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total carbohydrates: 9g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Use white vinegar instead of rice vinegar
- Use agave nectar instead of honey
- Use olive oil instead of sesame oil
Variations:
- Add sliced radishes or carrots for extra crunch
- Use cilantro instead of scallions for a different flavor
- Add a tablespoon of miso paste to the dressing for a deeper umami flavor
Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline to thinly slice the cucumbers for a more uniform texture
- Press the tofu with a paper towel or kitchen towel to remove excess water before cubing
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes to enhance their nutty flavor
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- None needed, serve chilled
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large bowl or on individual plates
- Garnish with additional sesame seeds and scallions
Garnishes:
- Additional sesame seeds and scallions
Pairings:
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish
- Pair with a bowl of rice for a light lunch
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed edamame
- Miso soup
- Seaweed salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too salty, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to balance the flavors
- If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to properly store leftovers in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth
Food history:
- Cucumber and tofu salad is a popular dish in Korean cuisine, often served as a side dish or appetizer.
Flavor profiles:
- Fresh, crunchy, savory, nutty, slightly sweet, and spicy
Serving suggestions:
- Serve chilled as a refreshing and light side dish or appetizer
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Korean
Taste: Refreshing, Tangy, Light, Crisp, Savory