Appetizer Side Dish

Sesame Cucumber Spiralized Salad Recipe – Gourmet And Food

Name: Sesame Cucumber Spiralized Salad Recipe – Gourmet And Food
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely grated or minced; 2 tablespoons scallions, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or distilled white vinegar; 6 Persian cucumbers or mini cucumbers, rinsed and ends trimmed; 1 teaspoon lightly toasted sesame seeds; 1 tablespoon Chinese-style chili crisp or chili oil; ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1 tablespoon light soy sauce; 2 teaspoons coarse salt

Maria George August 3, 2025

Servings: 2 Total Time: 10 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Have you ever come home after a long day, craving something fresh, vibrant, and oh-so-satisfying? If so, a sesame cucumber spiralized salad is the answer. This dish isn’t just a side; it’s an experience.

But what should you pair with this delightful salad? Grilled shrimp, teriyaki chicken, and even a simple bowl of jasmine rice are fantastic companions. They complement the clean flavors and bring a lovely balance to the table.

Imagine the first bite of a crisp cucumber, its crunch echoing in your ears. Now, add a drizzle of savory sesame oil and a hint of garlic, and you’ve made magic. This salad has become a staple in my kitchen. I’ve whipped it up for everything from casual lunches to dazzling dinner parties.

What makes this salad stand out? It’s not just about the taste; it’s about how it makes you feel. The freshness of the cucumbers paired with the richness of the sesame oil creates a balance that speaks to our need for both freshness and comfort.

Let’s delve deeper into why this sesame cucumber spiralized salad is not just another bowl of greens and how you can easily make it your own.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Crunchy Texture
The spiralized cucumbers provide a wonderful crunch. Unlike traditional salad components, spiralizing adds an unexpected twist—literally! This format not only makes the salad visually appealing but also enhances the texture, making each bite a delightful experience.

2. Flavor Fusion
The combination of hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and garlic creates a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. This tasty trifecta serves as an exciting backdrop, ensuring your taste buds are dancing with every bite.

3. Quick and Easy Preparation
In a world where time is of the essence, this salad shines. Within minutes, you can transform basic ingredients into a stunning dish that requires minimal cooking skills. In addition, the spiralized cucumbers hold their shape well, allowing for early preparation without sacrificing freshness.

4. Nutrient-Dense Ingredients
Packed with vitamins, this salad is a nutritional powerhouse. Cucumbers are hydrating, and using a variety of fresh herbs and veggies amps up the nutrient content. You can enjoy it guilt-free, knowing it’s as good for you as it is for your palate.

How Does It Taste?

The first experience with this salad is remarkable. Imagine biting into the spiralized cucumbers; the crispness bursts with freshness. With the sesame oil coating the cucumber strands, each bite brings a delightful savory note that’s perfectly complemented by the garlic and a hint of ginger. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty finish that lingers on the palate. The balance of textures—soft, crunchy, and chewy—keeps it interesting.

What Sets This Recipe Apart From Other Sesame Cucumber Spiralized Salad Variations?

While many salads stick to blending multiple vegetables with a simple dressing, this recipe elevates the ingredient list. By incorporating staples like hoisin sauce and chili crisp, it breaks away from conventional dressings. These additions kick things up a notch, introducing a sweet, spicy, and savory profile that keeps diners coming back for another helping.

The Ingredients

To make this delightful sesame cucumber spiralized salad, gather the following:

1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
This sauce adds a hint of umami and sweetness.
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
The toasted variety gives a wonderful depth of flavor.
2 cloves fresh garlic, finely grated or minced
Garlic gives unparalleled richness.

2 tablespoons scallions, finely chopped
Scallions bring a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens everything.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or distilled white vinegar
The acidity of the vinegar cuts through the richness of the oil and adds balance.
6 Persian cucumbers or mini cucumbers, rinsed and ends trimmed
These cucumbers are crisp and perfect for spiralizing.

1 teaspoon lightly toasted sesame seeds
Toasted seeds enhance the nutty flavor.
1 tablespoon Chinese-style chili crisp or chili oil
This won’t just spice things up; it will also add complexity.
½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Ginger adds brightness and a subtle zing that elevates the entire salad.

1 tablespoon light soy sauce
This brings saltiness and deep flavor without overwhelming the dish.
2 teaspoons coarse salt
This works to draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, making them crispier.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Trim the ends off. Using a spiralizer, transform your cucumbers into beautiful spirals. If you don’t have a spiralizer, a vegetable peeler can work too—just make thin strips instead. Once done, place the spirals in a colander, sprinkle with coarse salt, and let them sit for 15-20 min to draw out excess moisture. This makes for crunchier bites.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, chopped scallions, rice vinegar, chili crisp, ginger, and soy sauce. This shouldn’t take long—about a minute or so. Taste and adjust with more vinegar or chili crisp if you desire a punchier dressing.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the cucumbers have drained and are ready, add them to the bowl with the dressing. Toss well, ensuring that every strand is coated evenly. Let them mingle for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

For the final touch, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top of your salad. This makes for a beautiful presentation. Serve it right away, or cover it and let it chill in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving. The salad can hold its shape well, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.

How to make Sesame Cucumber Spiralized Salad Recipe

Notes

Use a sharp knife: If you’re cutting cucumbers without a spiralizer, a sharp knife will create thinner, more attractive slices.
Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can elevate the dish and provide an aromatic input.
Chill cucumbers ahead of time: Cold cucumbers enhance the refreshing quality of the salad.

Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Store leftovers smartly: If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll be good for about 2 days.

Nutrition Information

For one serving (approximately 1 cup) of this salad, you’ll consume:

This dish is low in calories, making it a nourishment-rich option without compromising taste.

How Do You Store This Sesame Cucumber Spiralized Salad?

To maintain freshness, always store leftovers in airtight containers. Place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture and help keep cucumbers crisp. The salad can generally be kept for about two days, although ideally, it is best enjoyed the day it is made.

Sides for Sesame Cucumber Spiralized Salad

1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Marinating shrimp in a blend of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil makes for a wonderful pairing with the salad. The smoky flavor from grilling complements the freshness of the cucumbers beautifully.

2. Teriyaki Chicken
The sweet-savory flavor of teriyaki chicken marries wonderfully with the sesame dressing in the salad. This dynamic duo guarantees a mouthwatering meal.

3. Jasmine Rice
Plain jasmine rice can be the perfect canvas to soak up the flavorful dressing from the salad. Its softness balances the crispness of the cucumbers, creating an appealing contrast.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

1. Cucumbers
If Persian cucumbers aren’t available, English cucumbers or any firm cucumber will work nicely.

2. Hoisin Sauce
In a pinch, a mix of soy sauce with a bit of honey or maple syrup makes a tasty substitute.

3. Chili Crisp
Sriracha or another hot sauce can give the necessary kick if chili crisp isn’t on hand.

4. Rice Vinegar
Any mild vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or even lemon juice, can act as an excellent substitute for rice vinegar.

Conclusion

The sesame cucumber spiralized salad isn’t just a side dish. It’s an adventure for your taste buds. The combination of flavors, textures, and colors makes it a captivating dish that checks all the boxes for health and satisfaction. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just preparing a meal for yourself, this salad promises to be a delightful addition to the menu.

Enjoy the process of creating it, and remember to experiment along the way. After all, cooking is about exploration and finding joy in every bite. Let this be your new go-to dish for any occasion!

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Print Recipe

Sesame Cucumber Spiralized Salad Recipe – Gourmet And Food

Author: Maria George Cuisine: Chinese Courses: Appetizer, Side Dish

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Total Time 10 mins

Servings: 2 Calories: 209

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

What makes this salad stand out? It’s not just about the taste; it's about how it makes you feel. The freshness of the cucumbers paired with the richness of the sesame oil creates a balance that speaks to our need for both freshness and comfort.