Crisp & Refreshing Chinese Cucumber Salad with Garlic and Sesame

Gather Your Ingredients:

Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients for this refreshing cucumber salad. You’ll need mini cucumbers, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sesame seeds. If you're making the spicy version, don't forget the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and black sesame seeds. Having everything laid out will make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable.

On a clean cutting board, slice the mini cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. For the best texture, cut them into thick rounds or slightly angled slices. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and preserves the cucumbers' crispness, which is essential for the salad.

Prepare the dressing:

In two small bowls, prepare the dressings for the spicy and non-spicy versions of the cucumber salad.

For the non-spicy version, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a small bowl. For a touch of sweetness add 1 tablespoon of Mirin. For some extra flavor add a tablespoon of Maggi. Stir until well mixed.

For the spicy version, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic in another small bowl. For a touch of sweetness add 1 tablespoon of Mirin. For some extra flavor add a tablespoon of Maggi. Stir until the ingredients are well blended.

Set the bowls aside as you prepare to dress the cucumbers. The sesame seeds will be added later for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Mix the Cucumbers with the Dressing:Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumbers in each bowl, ensuring one bowl has the spicy dressing and the other has the non-spicy version. Gently toss the cucumbers in the dressing until they are evenly coated. This allows the cucumbers to absorb the flavors, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture.

Add Sesame Seeds (Non-Spicy Version):Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of white sesame seeds over the non-spicy cucumber salad. Gently toss the cucumbers to distribute the sesame seeds evenly, adding a subtle nutty flavor and a pleasant crunch to the salad. This step completes the non-spicy version, making it ready to serve.

Add Black Sesame Seeds (Spicy Version):Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of black sesame seeds over the spicy cucumber salad. Gently toss the cucumbers to evenly distribute the sesame seeds, adding a bold, nutty flavor and a touch of visual contrast.

Add Red Chili Flakes (Spicy Version):To finish the spicy version of your cucumber salad, sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of red chili flakes over the cucumbers. Alternatively, you can drizzle a small amount of chili oil for an extra kick. Gently toss the cucumbers to ensure the chili flakes or oil are evenly distributed, adding the final layer of heat to your salad. Your spicy cucumber salad is now ready to be served.

Plating the Cucumber Salad:Carefully transfer the cucumber salads into serving bowls, arranging the slices neatly for a visually appealing presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro and an edible flower for an elegant touch. The vibrant colors and textures make this salad not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Your Chinese-Style Cucumber Salad is now ready to be enjoyed!

Use Fresh Ingredients:Fresh cucumbers, garlic, and quality sesame oil make a big difference in the flavor. Choose firm, crisp cucumbers for the best texture.

Adjust the Spice Level:The amount of red chili flakes or chili oil can be adjusted according to your taste preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more if you like extra heat.

Let It Marinate:For a deeper flavor, let the cucumbers sit in the dressing for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the cucumbers to soak up the dressing and become more flavorful.

Serve Chilled:This salad tastes best when served cold. Chill the cucumbers in the fridge before tossing them with the dressing, or refrigerate the salad for a few minutes after preparation.

Garnish Creatively:Adding edible flowers, fresh herbs like cilantro, or a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds can elevate the presentation of the salad, making it perfect for serving guests. These tips will help you create a refreshing, flavorful, and beautifully presented salad every time.