Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad with Chili Garlic Sauce
Serving Size: 4 people
DESCRIPTION
This Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad is crisp, refreshing, and tossed in a homemade chili garlic dressing that’s sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of spicy. Made with crunchy Persian cucumbers, a touch of brown sugar, and nutty sesame seeds, it comes together quickly with minimal effort. Perfect as a light vegan side dish, it pairs beautifully with noodles, soups, or BBQ mains. Fresh, quick, and packed with flavor, this cucumber salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any table.
INGREDIENTS
- 4 whole Persian cucumbers (mini cucumbers) or English cucumbers
- 3 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (make it in just 15 minutes!) or use store-bought
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- ½ -1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil optional
- toasted sesame seeds to garnish
METHOD
- Wash and dry the cucumbers, and slice in ½ inch rounds. No need to peel the skin when using a Persian or English cucumber.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a mixing bowl, and toss with salt. Let them sit for at least 15-20 minutes.Note: If you haven't already, this is a good time to prepare your homemade chili garlic sauce - it will only take 15 minutes!
- After 15 minutes, drain the excess salt liquid released from the cucumbers with a strainer, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Transfer the cucumbers back to the same mixing bowl. Toss with brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and a drizzle of sesame oil (optional) until cucumbers are evenly coated. Taste test to adjust your salt, sugar, or spice - if needed.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate to let the salad marinate a little longer till ready to serve.Note: When ready, give the salad another good toss before serving.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
NOTES
- Cut the cucumbers: For extra crunch and flavor, you can try smashing your cucumbers instead of slicing - they soak up more dressing. Or go playful with a spiral cut for that fun TikTok-style look!
- Marinate the cucumbers: The key to crispy, non-watery cucumbers is marinating them in salt. Don’t forget this crucial step!
- Drain the cucumbers: Remember to drain and thoroughly rinse the cucumbers before mixing them with sauce. This will prevent the salad from turning out too watery and salty.
- Make your own sauce: Homemade chili garlic sauce always tastes much better than store-bought versions. Since it keeps so well, there’s no excuse not to try making your own recipe!
NUTRITION
Calories: 19kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Sodium: 1208mg | Potassium: 1mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.01mg
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