Crisp & Tangy Taiwanese Cucumber Salad
Boost Your Appetite with this Easy Taiwanese Cucumber Salad Recipe!
Hello everyone! As summer approaches, we all crave light and refreshing dishes, don’t we? Among them, a chilled cucumber salad is perfect for the sweltering heat. Cucumbers are not only hydrating and cooling but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a popular choice. This Taiwanese-style cucumber salad, in particular, boasts a delightful sweet and sour flavor that’s incredibly appetite-stimulating. Let’s get started!
Main Ingredient- 2 Cucumbers
Seasoning Ingredients- 1 Tbsp Salt
- 2 Tbsp Sugar
- 3 Tbsp Vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Sesame Oil
- A pinch of Toasted Sesame Seeds (for garnish)
- 1 Tbsp Salt
- 2 Tbsp Sugar
- 3 Tbsp Vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Sesame Oil
- A pinch of Toasted Sesame Seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by trimming the ends off the cucumbers. Wash them thoroughly under running water. Then, cut each cucumber lengthwise into four equal parts.
Step 2
Next, slice the quartered cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3 cm (approximately 1 inch) in length. This makes them easier to eat and helps the dressing penetrate better.
Step 3
Place the sliced cucumbers into a large bowl. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of salt evenly over them and gently toss to coat. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to salt-pickle. This process draws out excess moisture, ensuring a crispier texture.
Step 4
In a separate small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of sugar, 3 tablespoons of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of optional red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved to create the tangy dressing. This is the key to its delicious flavor!
Step 5
After 30 minutes, drain the salted cucumbers thoroughly in a colander. For best results, gently squeeze out any remaining water. You can also use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat them dry, ensuring all excess moisture is removed. This step is crucial for the dressing to adhere properly and not become watery.
Step 6
Return the drained and dried cucumbers to the large bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over them and gently mix using your hands or a spatula, ensuring every piece of cucumber is coated evenly. Finally, sprinkle with a pinch of toasted sesame seeds for a fragrant finish. Your delicious Taiwanese cucumber salad is ready to serve!
