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Sesame Cucumber Spiralized Salad Recipe

Sesame Cucumber Spiralized Salad Recipe - Gourmet And Food

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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 209
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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.

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.