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Fresh Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad Recipe with Easy Chili Crisp Dressing

Fresh Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad - featured image
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A crisp, cooling cucumber salad tossed in a nutty sesame dressing and topped with spicy, crunchy chili crisp for a refreshing and flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers or 3 small Kirby cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 tablespoons chili crisp
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • Pinch of salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry cucumbers thoroughly. Slice into thin rounds about 1/8-inch thick using a sharp knife or mandoline. Place in a medium mixing bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together toasted sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger until honey dissolves and dressing is smooth.
  3. Pour dressing over sliced cucumbers. Toss gently with a spatula or clean hands to coat without crushing the slices.
  4. Add chili crisp and toasted sesame seeds. Toss lightly to distribute evenly.
  5. Sprinkle sliced green onions and a pinch of salt on top. Toss gently again. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Let the salad rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Optionally chill for 20 minutes before serving, then bring back to room temperature.

Notes

If cucumbers release too much water, drain excess liquid before adding chili crisp to avoid sogginess. Do not overmix to keep cucumber slices intact. Use toasted sesame oil for best flavor. Resting the salad allows flavors to meld but cucumbers soften over time. Adjust soy sauce and vinegar to taste. Substitute tamari for soy sauce for gluten-free option. Use maple syrup instead of honey for vegan version.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, sesame cucumber salad, chili crisp, Asian salad, quick salad, easy side dish, healthy salad, spicy cucumber salad

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/fresh-asian-sesame-cucumber-salad-recipe-with-easy-chili-crisp-dressing/