Zesty Shake Cucumber Salad (View Print Version)

Crunchy cucumber and scallions tossed in a tangy soy-sesame dressing with chili flakes and sesame seeds.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large English cucumbers, ends trimmed
02 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced

→ Dressing

03 - 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
04 - 1.5 tbsp rice vinegar
05 - 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
06 - 1.5 tsp sugar or honey
07 - 1 garlic clove, finely grated
08 - 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
09 - 0.5 to 1 tsp chili flakes, adjusted to taste

→ Garnish

10 - 1 tbsp sesame seeds (white or black)
11 - 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

# Method:

01 - Wash and dry the cucumbers, then slice each in half lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch thick half-moon slices.
02 - Place cucumber slices and scallions into a large resealable bag or airtight container.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sugar or honey, grated garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes until sugar dissolves.
04 - Pour dressing over cucumbers and scallions, seal the container, and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to ensure even coating.
05 - Refrigerate the salad for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
06 - Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's ready in 10 minutes but tastes like you actually fussed over dinner.
  • The shake method sounds silly until you realize it coats every slice evenly and somehow makes the whole thing taste better.
  • It stays crisp for days in the fridge, which means you can actually meal prep without guilt.
02 -
  • The dressing will seem strong when you first taste it alone, but it's meant to be bold—the cucumber dilutes it perfectly once everything sits together.
  • If your salad gets watery after a day or two, drain some liquid off before serving; the flavors have already done their job.
03 -
  • Keep the toasted sesame oil in a cool cupboard instead of next to the stove—heat makes it lose its flavor faster than you'd expect.
  • If you have an extra minute, toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before sprinkling them on; the warmth brings out their flavor and makes them taste fresher.
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