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Crunchy Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad Recipe with Chili Crisp

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A quick, refreshing, and crunchy Asian-inspired cucumber salad featuring toasted sesame, chili crisp, and a tangy dressing. Perfect as a spicy, flavorful side dish for warm weather or grilled meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chili crisp
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Small handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 stalk green onion, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Thinly slice 2 medium English cucumbers about 1/8-inch (3 mm) thick using a sharp knife.
  2. Place cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Toss gently to coat evenly and set aside for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. After 10 minutes, gently squeeze or pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels to remove released water.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon honey, and 1 finely minced garlic clove until smooth.
  5. Add the drained cucumbers to the dressing and toss gently to coat evenly without breaking the slices.
  6. Spoon in 1 to 2 tablespoons chili crisp depending on heat preference. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds over the top and toss lightly.
  7. Add chopped fresh cilantro and sliced green onions if using. Toss gently and let the salad rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

For extra crunch, chill cucumbers after slicing but before dressing. Adjust chili crisp amount to control heat. Toast raw sesame seeds in a dry skillet if you don’t have toasted sesame oil. Use tamari for gluten-free soy sauce. Substitute honey with maple syrup for vegan option. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator up to 2 days; best eaten fresh for crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, Asian salad, sesame cucumber salad, chili crisp, spicy cucumber salad, quick salad, healthy side dish

Find it online: https://zestynora.com/crunchy-asian-sesame-cucumber-salad-recipe-with-chili-crisp-easy-and-delicious/