Crispy Sautéed Cucumber: Super Easy Summer Delicacy & Lunchbox Side Dish
Recipe for Refreshing Sautéed Cucumber: The Easiest Summer Side Dish, Perfect for Your Partner’s Lunchbox!
Let’s make some refreshing sautéed cucumber, a perfect side dish that’s sure to whet your appetite on a warm day. This simple yet delicious recipe is easy for anyone to follow.
Basic Ingredients
- 2 Cucumbers
- 1/2 tsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Pinch of Sugar (very little)
- 1/4 Carrot
- 1 tsp Toasted Sesame Seeds
- 1 Handful Scallions (chopped)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
We’re going to make some wonderfully crisp sautéed cucumber! It’s the perfect side dish to stimulate your appetite during the hot summer months.
Step 2
First, prepare 2 cucumbers. Use coarse salt to scrub the outer skin of the cucumbers, cleaning them thoroughly. This helps remove pesticides or dirt and also reduces any bitterness. Once washed, cut the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3
Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and add about 1/2 tablespoon of salt. Let them sit and pickle for 10-15 minutes until they become slightly softened. After pickling, rinse them lightly under running water and then squeeze out as much water as possible. Properly squeezing out the water is crucial to prevent sogginess and maintain a crisp texture when sautéing.
Step 4
Now, let’s start sautéing. Heat a frying pan over medium heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil, and add the chopped scallions. Sauté until fragrant to create scallion oil. Scallion oil greatly enhances the flavor of the dish. Once the scallion oil is ready, add the salted and squeezed cucumbers to the pan and sauté them together.
Step 5
As the cucumbers begin to turn slightly translucent, add the julienned carrot (1/4 carrot) and quickly sauté it with the cucumbers. Adding carrots makes the dish visually appealing and adds extra nutrients. Be careful not to overcook; it’s important to keep the cucumbers crisp.
Step 6
Add the minced garlic (1/2 tsp) and a pinch of sugar, then stir quickly to combine while continuing to sauté. Finally, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame seeds. Your delicious, vibrant green sautéed cucumber is ready! It’s a fantastic summer side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.
