Tangy Shaken Asian Cucumber (Printable)

Crisp cucumbers tossed in a tangy, savory-sweet Asian dressing, fresh and ready in 10 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
02 - 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
03 - 1 small red chili, finely sliced (optional)

→ Dressing

04 - 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
05 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
06 - 2 teaspoons sesame oil
07 - 1 tablespoon sugar or maple syrup
08 - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
09 - 1 garlic clove, minced
10 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

→ Garnish

11 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
12 - Additional toasted sesame seeds, to taste

# How-To:

01 - Place the sliced cucumbers, spring onions, and chili (if using) into a large jar with a tight-fitting lid or a large salad bowl with a cover.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and toasted sesame seeds until sugar dissolves.
03 - Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture.
04 - Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to evenly coat the cucumbers, or toss thoroughly if using a bowl.
05 - Allow the salad to sit for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
06 - Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and additional toasted sesame seeds before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes 10 minutes total—including chopping—and doesn't require cooking or any special skill.
  • The jar-shaking method ensures every piece gets coated in that tangy, savory-sweet dressing, and it's oddly satisfying to do.
  • It's naturally vegan and gluten-free without feeling like a compromise, and tastes even better after sitting for a few minutes.
02 -
  • Don't skip the 5-minute resting time—it's the difference between a fresh salad and one where flavors actually speak to each other.
  • If your sesame seeds aren't toasted, take two minutes to toast them in a dry pan over medium heat; the difference in flavor is enormous and worth the small effort.
03 -
  • Always taste your dressing before combining it with the vegetables so you can adjust the balance of sour, salty, and sweet to your preference—dressings are personal.
  • If you find yourself without a jar, a container with a tight-fitting lid works just as well, and a salad bowl with cling film also gives you the shaking benefits.
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