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LUNCH

Crisp Chinese Cucumber Salad with Garlic and Chili Oil

Discover the vibrant flavors of this Chinese cucumber salad, a delightful and easy-to-make dish that's perfect as a light meal or a refreshing side. It combines crisp cucumbers with a savory, spicy, and tangy dressing, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. Ideal for a quick and satisfying culinary experience.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Wash the English cucumbers thoroughly. Using a rolling pin or the flat side of a chef's knife, gently smash the cucumbers until they crack open. This helps them absorb the dressing better.

02

Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch chunks. Place them in a medium-sized bowl.

03

In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, chili oil, sesame oil, granulated sugar, and salt until the sugar and salt are dissolved.

04

Pour the dressing over the cucumber pieces in the medium bowl. Toss gently to ensure all cucumber pieces are evenly coated.

05

For best flavor, let the salad marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature before serving. This allows the cucumbers to absorb the dressing.

06

Serve immediately as a refreshing lunch or a flavorful side dish.

About This Recipe

Discover the vibrant flavors of this Chinese cucumber salad, a delightful and easy-to-make dish that's perfect as a light meal or a refreshing side. It combines crisp cucumbers with a savory, spicy, and tangy dressing, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. Ideal for a quick and satisfying culinary experience.
Crisp Chinese Cucumber Salad with Garlic and Chili Oil
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

For extra crunch, you can add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds before serving. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili oil or omit it entirely.
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Easy Substitutions

Regular cucumbers can be used instead of English cucumbers, but you may want to peel them first. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. A pinch of red pepper flakes can substitute for chili oil if unavailable.
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Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may soften slightly over time.
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