When you’re craving a light, refreshing side dish that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this Asian Cucumber Salad. Combining the crispness of cucumbers with the creaminess of avocado and the zing of a tangy dressing, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and bursting with vibrant ingredients, it’s a delightful addition to any meal. Let’s dive into how to make this unique and tasty Asian Cucumber Salad.
Ingredients
- 4 generous cups of thinly sliced Persian cucumbers, or you can opt for English cucumbers instead
- 3/4 cup chopped avocado (~1 small ripe avocado)
- 1/4 cup of finely sliced green onions, using just the white portions (equivalent to about 4 onions)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional; modify to suit your taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Start by thinly slicing the Persian cucumbers (or English cucumbers if you prefer). Transfer the sliced cucumbers to a spacious mixing bowl.
2. Add the Avocado and Green Onions: Chop the avocado into small cubes and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers. Thinly slice the white parts of the green onions and add them to the mixture.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, white wine vinegar, and white sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved. This creates a tangy and slightly sweet dressing that perfectly complements the fresh vegetables.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the cucumber, avocado, and green onions. Gently toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are well-coated with the dressing.
5. Add the Final Touches: Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and red pepper flakes over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit more heat, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference.
6. Serve: Move the salad to a serving dish and enjoy right away. This salad is best served fresh, as the cucumbers will remain crisp and the avocado creamy.
Conclusion
This Asian Cucumber Salad is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. The crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and tangy dressing come together to create a salad that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a light side dish or a unique starter, this salad is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite. Enjoy the vibrant taste and refreshing qualities of this easy-to-make Asian Cucumber Salad.