Sesame Cucumber Strips

Name: Sesame Cucumber Strips
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 medium Japanese or Persian cucumbers; 2 tablespoons fine sea salt; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon light soy sauce; 1/2 teaspoon sugar; 1/4 teaspoon (optional) red pepper flakes

Crisp cucumber strips lightly salted, then dressed with aromatic sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds. This refreshing cold appetizer is perfect for summer and keeps well in the refrigerator.

20 min

Easy

0 favorites

Story

These cucumber strips are a classic Chinese bar snack or appetizer. The salting step draws out excess water, giving the cucumber a pleasant crunch and allowing the dressing to cling better. For best results, let them marinate for at least an hour before serving.

Ingredients

Japanese or Persian cucumbers 4 medium

fine sea salt 2 tablespoons

sesame oil 2 tablespoons

toasted sesame seeds 1 tablespoon

garlic cloves, minced 2

rice vinegar 1 tablespoon

light soy sauce 1 teaspoon

sugar 1/2 teaspoon

red pepper flakes 1/4 teaspoon (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the cucumbers

Wash cucumbers well and trim the ends. Cut each cucumber in half lengthwise, then slice into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick.

Salt the cucumber

Place cucumber strips in a large bowl and toss with the salt. Let sit for 10-15 minutes until they release some moisture, then pat completely dry with clean kitchen towels.

Make the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using.

Combine and serve

Add dried cucumber strips to the dressing and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.