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In the realm of culinary delights, Asian salads have carved out a special niche for their vibrant flavors, refreshing textures, and health benefits. From zesty Thai papaya salad to crunchy Japanese cucumber salads, these dishes encapsulate the essence of fresh ingredients, often served as a side or a light main dish. The Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad stands out as a perfect representation of this genre, offering a delightful blend of crisp cucumbers, aromatic herbs, and tangy dressing.

Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Dive into the refreshing flavors of this Asian Cucumber Salad! Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch, this quick recipe features crunchy cucumbers, a zesty dressing of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil, all enhanced with garlic and a dash of heat from red pepper flakes. With just 15 minutes of prep and a chill in the fridge, you’ll have a deliciously vibrant salad ready to impress. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop!

Ingredients
  

2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon salt

1/4 cup rice vinegar

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

2 green onions, finely chopped

Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

In a bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and salt. Toss well and let sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out excess water from the cucumbers.

    After 10 minutes, rinse the cucumbers under cold water and drain them well. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

      In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until the sugar dissolves completely.

        Add the drained cucumbers into the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat evenly.

          Stir in the toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions until well mixed.

            Let the salad marinate for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, allow it to chill for 1 hour.

              Before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4