You’re about to discover a game-changing side dish that will elevate your meal prep to the next level. This Asian cucumber salad recipe is a masterclass in simplicity, combining the crunch of fresh cucumber with the savory depth of toasted sesame seeds and scallions.
But what really sets this recipe apart is its versatility – will you add protein-packed chicken or tofu, or introduce bold Asian flavors with soy sauce and ginger?
The possibilities are endless, and with a nutritional profile as impressive as this, you’ll want to experiment with every combination.
Preparing the Asian Salad Base
The Asian salad base is a refreshing and crunchy foundation for a variety of salads, combining the sweetness of cucumbers with the crunch of vegetables and the nuttiness of sesame seeds. This salad base is inspired by the flavors and ingredients of Asian cuisine, perfect for a light and revitalizing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients
- 3 medium-sized cucumbers young, thin-skinned
- 1 teaspoon tossed sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoon roasted peanuts crushed
- 2 tablespoon fresh cilantro (coriander) finely chopped
- 2 tablespoon fresh scallions
For the dressing:
- 2 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon cane sugar or sugar
- ⅓ teaspoon red chili flakes or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt or to taste
Instructions
- Prepare cucumber: Slice the cucumbers into slightly thick rounds. You can peel the cucumbers if you prefer. You could do this with a knife or use a mandolin like this.
- Make the dressing: Put minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, cane sugar, salt, and red chili flakes in a small bowl. Whisk until sugar dissolves.
- Toss cucumber with dressing: Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices and toss to coat. Finish it off by adding chopped cilantro, scallions, crushed peanuts, and sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Top Tips
- For the best results, use fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially the cucumbers, as they can make or break the salad.
- Slice the vegetables just before assembling the salad to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes to bring out their nutty flavor.
- Don’t overdo it with the ingredients, as you want each component to shine and maintain the balance of flavors and textures.
- Consider adding other ingredients, such as cooked chicken or tofu, to make the salad more substantial.
- Prepare the salad base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day, then assemble and serve when ready.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4-6 |
| Calories | 45 |
| Fat | 0.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 11g |
| Protein | 2g |
This Asian salad base is a low-calorie and refreshing side dish, perfect for a light meal or as a crunchy accompaniment to your favorite protein. The cucumbers provide a good source of vitamins A and K, while the sesame seeds and peanuts add a boost of healthy fats and protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Regular Cucumbers Instead of Asian Cucumbers?
You can substitute regular cucumbers, but be aware that they’ll alter the flavor profile; Asian cucumbers are sweeter and less watery, so regular ones might make the dish taste blander and more diluted.
How Do I Store Leftovers to Maintain Crunchiness?
When storing leftovers, you’ll want to keep them fresh and crunchy; transfer them to fresh containers, wrapping each tightly with airtight wrapping to prevent moisture from seeping in and making them soggy.
Are There Any Variations for a Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad?
If you’re craving heat, you’ll love adding Korean chili flakes or Szechuan peppercorns to give your cucumber salad a bold, spicy kick – just be careful not to overpower the freshness!
Can I Make This Salad a Day in Advance?
When prepping a salad a day in advance, you’ll want to prioritize freshness. To guarantee the best flavor and texture, prep individual components separately, store them airtight, and assemble just before serving, ensuring a crunchy, vibrant salad that’s sure to impress.
What Is the Best Type of Vinegar to Use in This Recipe?
When choosing a vinegar, you’ll want one with a balanced acidity that won’t overpower the dish. Opt for a rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar, which offer subtle flavor profiles that will enhance, not overwhelm, your creation.
Conclusion
Get ready to elevate your meal prep with this Asian cucumber salad recipe.
You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together, and its versatility in accommodating your favorite protein sources and flavors.
With each bite packing a mere 45 calories, feel good about what you’re putting in your body.
This salad is a game-changer, and it’s time to experience it for yourself.
