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Fresh Shaved Cucumber Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing

fresh shaved cucumber salad - featured image
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A quick and refreshing salad featuring paper-thin cucumber ribbons tossed in a nutty, tangy sesame ginger dressing. Perfect for hot days, potlucks, or as a light side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers, washed and ends trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, shave the cucumbers lengthwise into thin ribbons, about 5-7 minutes. If seeds make ribbons watery, gently scrape them out before shaving.
  2. In a small bowl or jar, combine toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated fresh ginger, honey, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk or shake vigorously until well blended, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Place cucumber ribbons in a medium bowl. Pour dressing over cucumbers, then sprinkle sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and chopped cilantro if using. Gently toss to coat without breaking ribbons, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Allow salad to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to soak up dressing flavors without becoming soggy.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with more soy sauce or honey. Serve immediately or chill briefly if preferred cold.

Notes

Shave cucumbers slowly to avoid cracking ribbons. Toast sesame seeds if using untoasted for better flavor. Serve salad within a few hours of dressing to avoid sogginess. Store cucumbers and dressing separately if prepping ahead. Fresh ginger is key for best flavor. Adjust sweetness or saltiness to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, sesame ginger dressing, fresh salad, summer salad, easy salad, healthy side dish, gluten-free, vegan option

Find it online: https://lenatable.com/fresh-shaved-cucumber-salad-with-sesame-ginger-dressing-recipe-easy-and-refreshing/