Zesty Shake Cucumber Salad (Print View)

Crunchy cucumber tossed in tangy soy-sesame dressing with scallions, garlic, and chili flakes.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

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

→ Dressing

03 - 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
04 - 1 ½ tbsp rice vinegar
05 - 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
06 - 1 ½ tsp sugar or honey
07 - 1 garlic clove, finely grated
08 - 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
09 - ½–1 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. Slice them lengthwise in half, then cut into ¼-inch thick half-moon slices.
02 - Place cucumber slices and scallions into a large resealable bag or container with a tight lid.
03 - Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sugar, grated garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes in a small bowl until sugar is fully dissolved.
04 - Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and scallions. Seal the bag or container and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to ensure even coating.
05 - Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
06 - Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in 10 minutes flat, which means you can make it while water boils for pasta or rice.
  • The dressing is so addictive you'll find yourself drizzling it on other vegetables, grilled chicken, or even rice bowls.
  • It gets better as it sits, so you can prep it ahead and let the flavors deepen while you handle other things.
02 -
  • Don't skip the resting period—those 10 minutes are when the cucumber slices actually absorb the dressing and the flavors marry together instead of sitting separate on the plate.
  • If you make this more than a few hours ahead, the cucumbers will release water and dilute your dressing, so timing matters; same-day is best, or prepare the dressing separately and combine just before serving.
03 -
  • If you don't have a resealable bag, a glass container with a tight-fitting lid works just as well; the important part is creating an enclosed space where the dressing can move freely and coat everything evenly.
  • Taste the dressing before combining it with the cucumbers and adjust the heat and salt to your preference, because once everything is mixed together, it's harder to fine-tune the balance.
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