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Crispy Rice Vinegar Cucumber Salad Recipe Perfect for Spicy Summer Meals

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A quick and easy cucumber salad featuring thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a tangy rice vinegar dressing with toasted sesame seeds and chili flakes, perfect for spicy summer meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers or 3 Kirby cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (white or black)
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes, adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (or honey as a natural alternative)
  • ¾ teaspoon salt (kosher or sea salt)
  • 1 small clove garlic, finely minced (optional)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • A small handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice them very thinly—about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. For extra crispness, lay the slices on a paper towel and sprinkle lightly with salt; let sit for 10 minutes, then gently pat dry.
  2. Heat a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame seeds and toast, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, salt, minced garlic, and toasted sesame oil until the sugar dissolves. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cucumber slices with the sliced green onions and chopped cilantro if using.
  5. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and chili flakes on top, then toss gently again to distribute.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, give the salad one last gentle stir and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Toast sesame seeds fresh for best flavor. Thin cucumber slices are key to maintaining crispness. Adjust chili flakes to your preferred heat level. Add chili flakes just before serving if making ahead to preserve texture and color. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; avoid freezing.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, rice vinegar, sesame seeds, chili flakes, summer salad, spicy salad, quick salad, vegan, gluten-free

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/crispy-rice-vinegar-cucumber-salad-recipe-perfect-for-spicy-summer-meals/