Description
A quick and easy fresh spicy marinated cucumber salad with a bold sesame soy dressing that is crisp, tangy, and just a bit fiery. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Rinse and dry the cucumbers. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. Place the slices in a colander, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt, and toss gently. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
- While the cucumbers rest, combine 3 tablespoons rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 1 teaspoon honey, 2 cloves minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Whisk until the honey dissolves and the dressing is smooth.
- After 10 minutes, gently squeeze the cucumbers to release any remaining water. They should be moist but not dripping.
- Transfer the drained cucumbers to a clean mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat each slice evenly. Let the salad marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour in the fridge.
- Just before serving, stir in the sliced green onions and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Toss gently to distribute.
Notes
Salting the cucumbers before marinating is key to keep the salad crisp and prevent sogginess. Use thin slices for better flavor absorption. Whisk the dressing well to blend honey and oil. Adjust red pepper flakes to taste. Serve fresh or within 2 days refrigerated. Toast sesame seeds yourself if not pre-toasted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
Keywords: cucumber salad, spicy cucumber salad, marinated cucumber, sesame soy dressing, easy salad, quick side dish, healthy salad, vegan option