Are you looking for a refreshing and incredibly easy side dish to brighten up your next meal? Look no further than Pai Huang Gua (拍黄瓜), a simple yet incredibly flavorful Chinese cucumber salad. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and cooking time, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to your weekend brunch. It's a fantastic example of how delicious and healthy meals can be incredibly easy to prepare at home. This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1-2 small red chilies, finely sliced (optional, for spice)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Cucumber:
This step is crucial for achieving the best texture. Using an English cucumber is key, as it has fewer seeds and a less watery texture compared to regular cucumbers. After slicing the cucumber thinly, you can gently pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This simple step prevents the salad from becoming too watery.
Step 2: Creating the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and salt. Adjust the amount of sugar and salt according to your preference. A little extra sugar balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and adds a touch of sweetness.
Step 3: Combining and Serving:
Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together to ensure the cucumbers are evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This allows the cucumbers to absorb the delightful flavors of the dressing, resulting in a truly delicious side dish. Garnish with black sesame seeds and sliced red chilies (if using) before serving. Serve chilled for the best experience!
Cooking Tips for the Best Pai Huang Gua:
- Cucumber Choice: Using an English cucumber is recommended for its less watery texture and fewer seeds.
- Salt and Sugar Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and sugar to your personal taste.
- Marination Time: Allowing the cucumbers to marinate for at least 10 minutes enhances the flavor.
- Garnishing: Black sesame seeds add a lovely nutty aroma and visual appeal. Red chilies add a kick of heat.
Variations:
- Spicy Pai Huang Gua: Add more chili or a dash of chili oil for extra heat.
- Garlic Lover's Version: Increase the amount of garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Sesame Seed Boost: Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh cilantro or other herbs like mint for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a light and healthy side dish, low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals from the cucumber. The exact nutritional values will vary based on ingredient quantities and brands used. However, you can expect a serving to be relatively low in calories, fat, and sodium, making it a perfect addition to a balanced diet. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your everyday meals.
This easy Pai Huang Gua recipe is a testament to the fact that some of the best recipes are also the simplest. It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can deliver delicious and healthy dishes without requiring extensive time or effort. Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful salad as a side dish or a light meal on its own!