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Fresh Cucumber Salad with Soy Sauce Sesame Dressing

fresh cucumber salad - featured image

A quick and refreshing cucumber salad tossed in a savory soy sauce sesame dressing, perfect for summer meals and easy to prepare in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them into thin rounds about 1/8-inch (3 mm) thick. Transfer to a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, combine soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and minced garlic. Whisk or shake well until honey dissolves.
  4. Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices. Add sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Taste and add salt or freshly ground black pepper if needed, remembering soy sauce adds salt. Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature or in the fridge to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Give the salad a quick toss before serving. Garnish with extra sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately or chilled.

Notes

Use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free. Olive oil can substitute sesame oil but will alter flavor. Toast sesame seeds carefully to avoid burning. Let salad rest 10-15 minutes before serving for best flavor. Drain excess liquid before serving if cucumbers release too much water.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, soy sauce dressing, sesame dressing, summer salad, quick salad, easy side dish, gluten-free, vegan option