Cucumber Salad with Rice Wine Vinegar π₯π₯
Overview:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 34
- Rating: βββββ (5/5)
Description:
Indulge in the refreshing goodness of this Cucumber Salad with Rice Wine Vinegar! Reminiscent of the delightful Japanese sunomono salad, this dish offers a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures that will surely tantalize your taste buds. The preparation is quick and easy, making it an ideal choice for busy days when you crave something light and healthy. Keep in mind that the prep time does not include the setting time, so plan accordingly. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 cucumber
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
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Prep the Cucumbers:
- Start by washing the cucumber thoroughly under running water. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Slice the cucumber thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. You can peel the cucumber if desired, but leaving the skin on adds a nice texture and color to the salad.
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Prepare the Dressing:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the distilled white vinegar, sugar, and kosher salt. Stir well until the sugar and salt dissolve completely, creating a sweet and tangy dressing.
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Toss Everything Together:
- Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss the cucumbers until they are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
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Infuse with Flavor:
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap to seal in the freshness. Place it in the refrigerator and let the flavors mingle for at least an hour. This allows the cucumbers to absorb the tangy essence of the dressing, resulting in a burst of flavor with every bite.
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Enhance with Sesame Seeds:
- Just before serving, take the cucumber salad out of the refrigerator. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top, adding a delightful nutty flavor and a crunchy texture to the dish.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the cucumber salad to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with a few extra sesame seeds for visual appeal, if desired.
- Serve the salad chilled as a refreshing appetizer or side dish alongside your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Tips and Tricks:
- Toasting Sesame Seeds: For optimum flavor, toast the sesame seeds before adding them to the salad. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and toast until lightly browned and fragrant. Be sure to keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly. Once toasted, allow them to cool completely before using. To extend their shelf life, store toasted sesame seeds in the freezer until needed.
- Make-Ahead Option: This cucumber salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The longer it sits, the more the flavors develop, making it even more delicious.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar according to your personal preference. You can also add other ingredients such as thinly sliced onions, bell peppers, or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 34 per serving
- Fat: 0.7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 221.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 6.8g
- Fiber: 0.9g
- Sugar: 3.6g
- Protein: 1.2g
Conclusion:
Experience the crispness of fresh cucumbers combined with the tangy goodness of rice wine vinegar in this delightful Cucumber Salad. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side dish, or a party appetizer, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and simple preparation, this salad is perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds with this easy and delicious recipe!
