Tangy Shaken Asian Cucumber (Printable)

Crisp cucumbers with tangy Asian-inspired dressing, sesame, and fresh cilantro. Ready in 10 minutes for a light side or snack.

# What you need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
02 - 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
03 - 1 small red chili, finely sliced (optional)

→ Dressing

04 - 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
05 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
06 - 2 teaspoons sesame oil
07 - 1 tablespoon sugar or maple syrup
08 - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
09 - 1 garlic clove, minced
10 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

→ Garnish

11 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
12 - Additional toasted sesame seeds, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Place the sliced cucumbers, spring onions, and chili (if using) into a large jar with a tight-fitting lid or a large salad bowl with a cover.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame seeds until sugar dissolves.
03 - Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture.
04 - Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to coat the cucumbers evenly (or toss thoroughly if using a bowl).
05 - Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
06 - Sprinkle with cilantro and extra sesame seeds before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together faster than ordering takeout, and every bite stays crisp and cold.
  • The shake method means no messy whisking or extra dishes, just toss and go.
  • You can adjust the heat and sweetness on the fly, making it yours every single time.
02 -
  • If you skip the resting time, the salad will taste sharp and one-dimensional instead of balanced and layered.
  • Use a jar with a really tight lid or you'll end up with dressing on your ceiling, trust me on this one.
03 -
  • Toast your own sesame seeds in a dry pan for thirty seconds to unlock a deeper, richer flavor.
  • Chill the jar or bowl in the fridge for ten minutes before shaking so the salad stays ice-cold and extra refreshing.
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