Quick & Refreshing Cucumber Salad

 Enjoy a light and refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad with a tangy vinegar-based dressing. This easy recipe is perfect as a side dish for any Asian-inspired meal or a light snack.

• Keyword Focus: Asian Cucumber Salad, Easy Cucumber Salad, Vinegar Salad, Refreshing Salad, Asian Side Dish.

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes (optional for toasting sesame seeds)

Ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian), thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (or honey)
• ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Thinly sliced scallions (green parts only, for garnish)

Equipment:

• Large bowl
• Small bowl (for dressing)
• Whisk or fork

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Thinly slice the cucumbers. You can use a mandoline for even slices or a sharp knife. If using English cucumbers, you don't need to peel them. For regular cucumbers, you might want to peel them or leave some skin for texture.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), grated ginger (if using), minced garlic (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Combine Cucumber and Dressing: Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated.
4. Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish: Before serving, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions (if using).

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SEO Recipe 2: Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad with Peanut Dressing

This creamy Asian Cucumber Salad offers a delightful twist with a rich and nutty peanut dressing. It's a quick and flavorful side dish that's sure to be a hit.

• Keyword Focus: Creamy Cucumber Salad, Asian Peanut Salad, Easy Salad Recipe, Peanut Dressing, Asian Side Dish.

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian), thinly sliced
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons warm water (to thin the dressing)
• 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts (for garnish)
• Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Equipment:

• Large bowl
• Small bowl
• Whisk or fork

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Thinly slice the cucumbers.
2. Make the Peanut Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Gradually whisk in warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency (it should be pourable but still creamy).
3. Combine Cucumber and Dressing: Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl. Pour the peanut dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to coat.
4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish: Before serving, garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro.

Enjoy these easy and refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad recipes! They are a perfect way to add a flavorful and healthy side to your meals. Given the early hour here in Sri Lanka, perhaps you're thinking of a light and refreshing addition to your breakfast or a future meal?