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Fresh Cucumber Salad with Rice Vinegar

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A quick and easy 5-minute cucumber salad featuring crisp cucumbers, tangy rice vinegar, and nutty toasted sesame seeds, perfect for a refreshing summer side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar (unseasoned)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • A pinch of freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • 1–2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry 2 medium English cucumbers. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them thinly into rounds about 1/8-inch (3 mm) thick.
  2. Heat a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon sesame seeds and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper until the sugar dissolves.
  4. Add the sliced cucumbers and, if using, 1-2 thinly sliced green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every slice.
  5. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad and give everything one last gentle toss.
  6. Optional: Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature or chill in the fridge for up to 30 minutes to let flavors mingle before serving.

Notes

Toast sesame seeds carefully over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Slice cucumbers about 1/8-inch thick for best texture. Pat cucumbers dry if watery to prevent sogginess. Let salad rest briefly to deepen flavors but serve within 2 days for best crispness. Optional additions include crushed red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for brightness.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/fresh-cucumber-salad-with-rice-vinegar-easy-5-minute-recipe-for-summer/