Spicy Cucumber Salad Recipe
A refreshing, tangy, and spicy cucumber salad inspired by Asian flavors. Crisp cucumbers are combined with a bold dressing of rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, and red pepper flakes to create a perfectly balanced dish.
Ingredients
- 4 fresh English cucumbers thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro and mint roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds and 2 finely sliced scallions
Instructions
Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Rinse the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly and drain any excess water.
Make the Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the cucumber slices with the chopped herbs. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and mix until evenly coated.
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions over the salad just before serving. Enjoy immediately for optimal crunch and freshness.
Notes
- Customization: Adjust the heat by varying the amounts of chili garlic sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your taste. Feel free to experiment with different types of vinegar (like apple cider vinegar) for a unique twist on the traditional tang.
- Ingredient Tips: For the best texture and flavor, use English cucumbers as they have a thin skin and fewer seeds. Ensure cucumbers are well-drained after slicing to keep the salad crisp.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs wonderfully as a side dish for Asian-inspired meals or as a refreshing starter on its own. Consider adding extra fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
- Storage Advice: Although this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Add garnishes like toasted sesame seeds and scallions just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- Additional Note: Preparing the salad just before serving will ensure the cucumbers retain their ideal texture and the flavors remain vibrant.