Sesame-Ginger Cucumber Salad Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions

Special equipment needed:
- None

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
2. In a large bowl, add sliced cucumbers and pour the dressing over them.
3. Toss the cucumbers with the dressing until evenly coated.
4. Add chopped scallions and toss again.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 70
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 430mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Rice vinegar: apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- Soy sauce: tamari or coconut aminos
- Honey: maple syrup or agave nectar
- Sesame oil: olive oil or avocado oil
- Red pepper flakes: cayenne pepper or chili powder
- Scallions: chopped red onion or sliced shallots

Variations:
- Add sliced radishes or carrots for extra crunch.
- Use a spiralizer to create cucumber noodles instead of thinly sliced cucumbers.
- Add chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh herb flavor.
- Use a different type of vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline slicer to get even and thin cucumber slices.
- Make sure to toss the cucumbers with the dressing right before serving to prevent them from getting too soggy.
- Double the recipe for a larger crowd.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
- None, serve chilled.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with extra sesame seeds or sliced scallions.

Garnishes:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced scallions
- Chopped cilantro or mint

Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- Stir-fried vegetables

Suggested side dishes:
- Miso soup
- Edamame
- Spring rolls

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cucumbers release too much water, drain the excess liquid before serving.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the cucumbers thoroughly before slicing them.

Food history:
- Cucumber salads are a popular dish in many cultures, including Japanese, Chinese, and Korean cuisine.

Flavor profiles:
- This salad has a sweet and tangy flavor from the rice vinegar and honey, with a slight kick from the red pepper flakes.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish or as a light lunch.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: N/A

Taste: Tangy, Sweet, Spicy, Savory, Umami