Zesty Shake Cucumber Salad (Print Version)

Crunchy cucumber tossed in tangy soy-sesame dressing with subtle heat, perfect for a light side or snack.

# 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 1/2 tbsp rice vinegar
05 - 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
06 - 1 1/2 tsp sugar or honey
07 - 1 garlic clove, finely grated
08 - 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
09 - 1/2 to 1 tsp chili flakes, adjusted to taste

→ Garnish

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

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Wash and dry cucumbers. Slice in half lengthwise, then cut into 1/4-inch thick half-moons.
02 - Place cucumber slices and scallions in a large resealable bag or container with a tight-fitting lid.
03 - Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes in a small bowl until sugar dissolves.
04 - Pour dressing over cucumbers and scallions, seal bag or container, and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to coat evenly.
05 - Place in refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
06 - Transfer to serving bowl and garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro if desired.

# Top Tips:

01 -
  • It's genuinely crunchy even after sitting in the fridge, which honestly surprised me the first time I made it.
  • The shaking technique coats everything evenly without needing special equipment or standing there stirring.
  • You can make it ahead and it tastes better the longer it sits, making it perfect for meal prep or bringing to gatherings.
02 -
  • The bag shaking method actually matters—it coats everything evenly in a way that stirring with a spoon somehow doesn't manage.
  • If your cucumbers release too much liquid while sitting, drain some off before serving or the salad gets watery and sad.
03 -
  • Grating garlic and ginger instead of mincing them makes them dissolve into the dressing invisibly rather than creating little chunks.
  • If you accidentally over-salt it, add more cucumber or a splash of rice vinegar to balance it back out.
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