Chinese · Side · Easy
Sesame Cucumber Salad
- Total
- 20 min
- Prep
- 20 min
- Serves
- 4
- Calories
- 55
Cool cucumber pieces glisten with rice vinegar and sesame oil, with torn basil, chili flakes and toasted seeds for a quick, crunchy side.
A short salting draws excess water from sesame cucumber salad before the dressing goes on. That keeps the vinegar lively instead of letting it dilute into a puddle at the bottom of the bowl.
Use thin-skinned cucumbers and leave the peel on for color and bite. If the center is full of large watery seeds, scrape those out before cutting the pieces.
Method
Quarter the cucumbers lengthwise and cut into 1/2-inch pieces. Toss with salt in a colander and leave for .
Drain and pat the cucumber dry. Whisk sesame oil, rice vinegar and red chili flakes in a serving bowl.
Add the cucumber and basil leaves, toss well and scatter with the toasted sesame seeds. Serve while the cucumber is crisp.
Forkue tips
- Use toasted sesame oil for a stronger nutty aroma; a small amount goes a long way.
Storing and reheating
Best served freshly dressed. Refrigerate leftovers for 1 day, then drain excess liquid and add fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition per serving, estimated
Sesame Cucumber Salad: FAQ
Can I make it ahead?
Salt and drain the cucumbers ahead, then refrigerate them separately from the dressing. Toss together shortly before serving for the firmest texture.
Can I omit the chili?
Yes, the vinegar and sesame oil provide enough flavor on their own. Leave out the flakes for a mild, cooling side.
How do I store and reheat Sesame Cucumber Salad?
Best served freshly dressed. Refrigerate leftovers for 1 day, then drain excess liquid and add fresh basil before serving.
How long does Sesame Cucumber Salad take?
About 20 min in total: 20 min prep and 0 min cooking.
What do I need to make Sesame Cucumber Salad?
The key ingredients are cucumbers, sesame oil, rice vinegar, basil leaves, red chili flakes and sesame seeds, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Sesame Cucumber Salad?
Use toasted sesame oil for a stronger nutty aroma; a small amount goes a long way.
