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Fresh Viral Cucumber Salad Recipe with Rice Vinegar Sesame Chili Oil

fresh viral cucumber salad - featured image
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A quick, refreshing cucumber salad with tangy rice vinegar, nutty sesame oil, and a subtle kick of chili oil, perfect for summer and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili oil (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus extra for salting cucumbers
  • 1 small clove fresh garlic, finely minced (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Slice the cucumbers thinly, about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick, using a sharp knife or mandoline.
  2. Place cucumber slices in a colander or bowl, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, toss gently to coat, and let rest for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. Toast 1 tablespoon sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring constantly.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, chili oil, sugar, salt, and minced garlic until sugar dissolves.
  5. Rinse salted cucumber slices under cold water briefly to remove excess salt, then pat dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner.
  6. Transfer cucumbers to a mixing bowl, add green onions and toasted sesame seeds, pour dressing over, and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  7. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

Salt cucumbers first to draw out moisture and keep salad crisp; rinse salt off before combining. Toast sesame seeds carefully to avoid burning. Adjust chili oil to preferred spice level. Salad tastes better after chilling for at least 10 minutes and can be stored up to 24 hours refrigerated. Avoid freezing.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili oil, summer salad, quick salad, easy side dish, gluten-free, vegan

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/fresh-viral-cucumber-salad-recipe-with-rice-vinegar-sesame-chili-oil-easy-and-perfect-for-summer/