Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly refreshing side dish that's taking over TikTok? Look no further! This vibrant cucumber salad is not only incredibly easy to make – it's ready in just 5 minutes – but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a hot summer day, a light lunch, or a simple side to any main course, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect example of how delicious and healthy homemade cooking can be, even when you're short on time. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (English cucumbers are ideal, but any kind will do)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or honey for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Start by thinly slicing your cucumbers and red onion. Using a mandoline slicer can make this process even faster and ensure consistent slices. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife will do just fine.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar (or honey), salt, and pepper. Make sure the sugar dissolves completely for a balanced dressing.
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Combine and Marinate: Add the sliced cucumbers and red onions to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
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Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but it really enhances the taste. Before serving, sprinkle with sesame seeds (if using) for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Tips for the Best TikTok Cucumber Salad:
- Salt the Cucumbers (Optional): For an even crispier salad, you can lightly salt the sliced cucumbers and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture. Remember to rinse them gently under cold water before adding the dressing.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar, vinegar, or soy sauce to your liking. If you prefer a tangier salad, add more vinegar. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more sugar or honey.
- Add Some Zing: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Cucumber Salad: Add a finely chopped chili pepper or a dash of sriracha to the dressing for a spicy twist.
- Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Add chopped tomatoes for extra freshness and color.
- Sesame Ginger Cucumber Salad: Add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger to the dressing for an aromatic and flavorful variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and low-calorie option. Nutritional values will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. The approximate values per serving are:
- Calories: Around 100-120
- Protein: 2-3 grams
- Fat: 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
This quick and easy cucumber salad is a great addition to your healthy meal repertoire. It's perfect as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or as a light lunch on its own. This is one of the best recipes for a quick dinner idea or a refreshing snack anytime! Enjoy!