As summer approaches and cookouts become a regular weekend event, finding fresh, vibrant, and healthy dishes to complement your grilled favorites is essential. One such dish is the Asian Cucumber Salad.
This easy, crisp cucumber salad, tossed in a zesty sesame dressing, is not only delicious but also gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, plant-based, and low-carb. It’s the perfect addition to any gathering, offering a refreshing and flavorful option that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Preparation Steps:
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Start by washing and thinly slicing the cucumbers. You can use a mandoline slicer for uniform thin slices or a sharp knife.
- Mix the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, olive oil, sugar or honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture. Toss everything together until the cucumbers are well-coated with the dressing.
- Add the Final Touch: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a bit of crunch and extra flavor.
Health Benefits:
- Low-Calorie and Hydrating: Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making this salad a hydrating, guilt-free addition to your meal.
- Rich in Nutrients: Cucumbers provide vitamins K and C, while the sesame seeds add a boost of healthy fats and protein.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Ingredients like ginger and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and boost overall health.
- Diet-Friendly: This salad fits various dietary needs, being gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, plant-based, and low-carb, making it a versatile dish for any guest.
Serving Suggestions:
- At Cookouts: Serve this Asian Cucumber Salad as a refreshing side dish at your next barbecue or picnic.
- Meal Prep: Prepare a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week as a quick and healthy side.
- Topping for Proteins: Use it as a crunchy, zesty topping for grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal.
The Asian Cucumber Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings freshness to any meal.
Its easy preparation and health benefits make it an ideal choice for anyone who looking to incorporate more nutritious and delicious recipes into their diet. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or simply want a quick, healthy salad, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
Enjoy the crispness of cucumbers combined with the zing of a zesty sesame dressing, and make your next gathering a flavorful success.