The Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that captivates the senses. Crisp, refreshing cucumbers meld seamlessly with a luxurious dressing, elevating this dish far beyond a simple side. This refined salad is perfect for any gathering, marrying modern culinary finesse with traditional Asian influences in a harmonious blend.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: With minimal prep time, this dish exudes sophistication.
- Minimal Ingredients: Utilizing pantry staples, it’s both accessible and elevated.
- Impressive Flavor: The contrasting textures and creamy dressing create a memorable experience.
Crafted from fresh produce and simple ingredients, this salad offers complexity without sacrificing ease, making it a standout at any table.
Ingredients
- Base:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Topping:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
How to Make Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Place the thinly sliced cucumbers in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle with sea salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, ensuring a crisp salad.
- Create the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Drain the cucumbers and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Add the cucumbers to the dressing and toss well to coat.
- Finish with Toppings: Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the salad. Toss lightly for an even distribution.
Kitchen Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving, giving the dressing time to marry with the cucumbers.
How to Serve Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad
Present this elegant salad in a pristine white bowl to amplify its vibrant colors. Garnish with a few additional sesame seeds and green onions on top for a sophisticated touch. This visually striking dish complements a variety of meals and can also stand alone as an enticing appetizer.
How to Store Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad
To preserve texture and flavor, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure the salad is well-covered to prevent it from absorbing other odors. For optimal freshness, consume within two days. If desired, gently toss with fresh green onions just before serving to refresh its flavors.
Tips to Make Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad
- Opt for Japanese cucumbers for a more delicate flavor and crunch.
- For a zesty twist, incorporate a splash of lime juice into the dressing.
- Experiment with additional herbs such as cilantro or mint for a vibrant flavor profile.
Variation
Consider incorporating thinly sliced radishes for an added crunch or a sleek presentation with rounds of colorful peppers. For a richer texture, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, but it’s best to store the cucumbers and dressing separately to prevent sogginess. Combine them just before serving for optimal texture.
What should I serve with this salad?
This creamy cucumber salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, Asian-inspired dishes, or can be served as a refreshing appetizer.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and check that the soy sauce is gluten-free if needed.
Conclusion
The Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in gourmet dining. This dish is as elegant as it is easy to prepare, making it a perfect addition to any culinary repertoire. Share your culinary creations and join the conversation by leaving comments below. How would you make this dish your own?
Print
Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful symphony of flavors and textures, this Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad features crisp cucumbers in a luxurious dressing, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
Instructions
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a mixing bowl, sprinkle with sea salt, and let sit for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Drain the cucumbers and pat them dry with paper towels, then add them to the dressing and toss well to coat.
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the salad, tossing lightly for even distribution.
Notes
For extra flavor, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within two days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg