Cucumber Salad
I still remember the first time I had the chance to taste the Cucumber Salad at Din Tai Fung. Nestled in the heart of the bustling city, the restaurant was always buzzing with life, the aroma of fresh ingredients wafting through the air. As I sat down at the table, the waiter brought out this vibrant, refreshing dish that was a feast for the eyes. The crunch of the cucumbers paired with a tangy dressing was such a delightful contrast, instantly transporting me to a place of culinary wonder. It was more than just a salad; it was a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Each bite brought back memories of summer days and outdoor picnics, making it a dish that I had to recreate at home.
Since then, I’ve made it numerous times, tweaking the recipe to fit my own tastes while keeping the spirit of the original alive. This Cucumber Salad is not only incredibly easy to whip up, but it also serves as a perfect side dish for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a quick, healthy bite, this salad will fit right in. I’ve loved sharing it with friends and family, watching their faces light up with the first taste. It’s refreshing and light, yet satisfying enough to complement any main course. If you haven’t tried making it yet, I promise it’s worth every minute spent in the kitchen!
Recipe Snapshot
20 mins
20 mins
0 mins
Medium
100 kcal
2 g
Whole30, Vegan, Low FODMAP
5 g
Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Whisk
Why This Cucumber Salad Is a Winner
It’s Incredibly Refreshing
There’s something about a chilled Cucumber Salad that instantly revitalizes you, especially during those hot summer days. The juiciness of the cucumbers combined with the tangy dressing creates a perfect harmony that will make your taste buds dance.
Simple Ingredients for Big Flavor
This salad uses a handful of accessible ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. With just sea salt, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a few more items, you can make a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a family dinner, a picnic, or a potluck, the Cucumber Salad is versatile and suitable for any gathering. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light meal.
Great for Meal Prep
Making a big batch of this salad means you have delicious, healthy meals ready to go. It stores well in the fridge and actually tastes even better after marinating for a while!
An Eye-Catching Dish
The vibrant colors of the salad make it a visually appealing addition to your table. It’s not just delicious; it makes your meals more inviting.
Healthier Choice
With its fresh ingredients and minimal calories, this salad is a guilt-free indulgence. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Essential Ingredients for Cucumber Salad
The beauty of this Cucumber Salad lies in its simplicity. The ingredients work together to create a refreshing and flavorful experience. The star, of course, is the cucumber, which offers a crisp texture and a mild taste that absorbs the dressing beautifully. Sea salt draws out moisture from the cucumbers, enhancing their flavor, while the blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and other ingredients creates a delightful balance of salty, tangy, and slightly sweet notes.
- 1 pound English cucumbers: These cucumbers are preferred for their thin skin and minimal seeds, making them incredibly crunchy and refreshing.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: This will help to draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, intensifying their flavor.
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce: Adds depth of flavor and a savory touch to the dressing without being too overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Provides a gentle acidity that complements the cucumbers perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: A small amount of sugar balances out the acidity and enhances the overall taste.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the salad with a lovely aroma and a hint of spice.
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or chili oil: Adds a kick of heat, which can be adjusted to your preference.
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Brings a nutty flavor that rounds out the dressing beautifully.
The Method for Cucumber Salad
Making this Cucumber Salad is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll love how quickly you can whip it up. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your salad is perfect every time.
Start by slicing the cucumbers into 1/4-inch thick rounds. The thickness is key to ensuring they maintain their crunch. As you cut, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant green color and crisp texture of the cucumbers. Once sliced, place them in a colander.
Sprinkle the sea salt over the sliced cucumbers. Toss them gently to ensure each piece is coated. This step is essential as the salt will draw out excess moisture, resulting in a crispier salad. Let the cucumbers sit for 10 to 15 minutes and watch as they release their watery essence.
While the cucumbers are sitting, prepare the dressing. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, granulated sugar, minced garlic, chili flakes (or oil), and toasted sesame oil. The goal is to combine all the ingredients until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a smooth, glossy dressing that will coat the cucumbers.
Once the cucumbers have released some moisture, rinse them under cold water to remove the excess salt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial as it prevents the salad from becoming too salty and ensures the dressing adheres well.
Add the rinsed and dried cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together gently, ensuring all the pieces are well coated in the sauce. Take a moment to enjoy the wonderful aroma of the dressing mingling with the fresh cucumbers.
For the best flavor, allow the salad to marinate for at least 20 minutes. If you have the time, letting it sit for 2 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the flavors even more. The longer it marinates, the better the taste will be!
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss once more and transfer it to a serving dish. You can garnish it with additional chili flakes or sesame seeds if desired. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will surely impress your guests.
Enjoy this refreshing Cucumber Salad as a side dish or a light meal! Each bite will remind you of warm summer days and delicious Asian cuisine.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Things Worth Knowing
- Tip 1: The key to a crispy salad is the salting process. Make sure to let the cucumbers sit long enough to draw out moisture for the best texture.
- Tip 2: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice preference. A little goes a long way!
- Tip 3: You can use different types of vinegar for a unique twist, such as apple cider vinegar or even a flavored vinegar.
- Tip 4: Experiment by adding other vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers to enhance the color and nutrition.
Pro Tips and Tweaks
While the Cucumber Salad is fantastic as is, there are always ways to elevate it. Here are some tips that I’ve found helpful over the years:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors will continue to meld!
- Freezing: It’s best to avoid freezing this salad as the texture of the cucumbers will change significantly when thawed.
- Pairing: This salad works wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken, making it a perfect summer side dish.
- Presentation: For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in a clear bowl to showcase the beautiful colors of the cucumbers.
- Variations: Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serving Cold: For the best taste, serve the salad chilled. It makes for a refreshing dish on a hot day.
Perfect Matches for Cucumber Salad
This Cucumber Salad is an incredibly versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of meals and occasions. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Grilled Chicken: The tangy flavors complement grilled meats wonderfully, making it an ideal side dish for barbecues.
- Asian Dishes: Pair it with stir-fries or sushi to create a well-rounded meal full of different textures and flavors.
- Picnics and Potlucks: Its portability and vibrant appearance make it a perfect choice for outdoor gatherings.
- Lunch Bowls: Add this salad to a grain bowl for a refreshing crunch alongside your favorite protein.
- Meal Prep: Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week for easy lunches or dinners.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Cucumber Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and bold flavors make it a must-try for anyone looking to brighten up their meals. I encourage you to give it a shot—you might just find it becoming a staple in your kitchen!
Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by slicing the cucumbers into 1/4-inch thick rounds. The thickness is key to ensuring they maintain their crunch. As you cut, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant green color and crisp texture of the cucumbers. Once sliced, place them in a colander.
- Sprinkle the sea salt over the sliced cucumbers. Toss them gently to ensure each piece is coated. This step is essential as the salt will draw out excess moisture, resulting in a crispier salad. Let the cucumbers sit for 10 to 15 minutes and watch as they release their watery essence.
- While the cucumbers are sitting, prepare the dressing. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, granulated sugar, minced garlic, chili flakes (or oil), and toasted sesame oil. The goal is to combine all the ingredients until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a smooth, glossy dressing that will coat the cucumbers.
- Once the cucumbers have released some moisture, rinse them under cold water to remove the excess salt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial as it prevents the salad from becoming too salty and ensures the dressing adheres well.
- Add the rinsed and dried cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together gently, ensuring all the pieces are well coated in the sauce. Take a moment to enjoy the wonderful aroma of the dressing mingling with the fresh cucumbers.
- For the best flavor, allow the salad to marinate for at least 20 minutes. If you have the time, letting it sit for 2 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the flavors even more. The longer it marinates, the better the taste will be!
- When you're ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss once more and transfer it to a serving dish. You can garnish it with additional chili flakes or sesame seeds if desired. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will surely impress your guests.
- Enjoy this refreshing Cucumber Salad as a side dish or a light meal! Each bite will remind you of warm summer days and delicious Asian cuisine.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!
