This Marinated Cucumber Salad is the epitome of a refreshing side dish. The cool crunch of cucumbers, paired with the tangy vinegar dressing, offers a light and satisfying bite. It’s a simple yet flavorful way to elevate any meal, especially during warmer months.
The recipe is versatile and can be adjusted with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables. It’s an excellent complement to grilled meats, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light snack. The sesame oil and soy sauce add a savory depth to the dressing, while the ginger gives it a subtle zing. Whether served alongside a hearty main course or as a quick snack, this cucumber salad is bound to become a favorite!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
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1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup rice vinegar
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2 tablespoons sugar
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
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Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and red onion. Place them in a large bowl.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, soy sauce, grated ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper until the sugar dissolves.
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Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onion. Toss to coat well.
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Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
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Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 40 kcal Servings: 4 servings
Marinated Cucumber Salad: A Refreshing Delight for Every Season
If you’re searching for a light, healthy, and flavor-packed side dish to accompany your meals, look no further than marinated cucumber salad. This simple yet refreshing dish is a perfect blend of crisp cucumbers, tangy vinegar, and fragrant spices that come together to create a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a fresh lunch, or looking for a light snack, marinated cucumber salad is the ultimate choice.
A Timeless Favorite: The Beauty of Cucumber in Salads
Cucumbers have long been cherished for their fresh, crisp texture and mild, refreshing flavor. These green vegetables are not only a favorite for making salads but also for their numerous health benefits. Low in calories, hydrating, and packed with vitamins and minerals, cucumbers make for an excellent addition to any diet.
When cucumbers are marinated, their mild flavor takes on a whole new depth. The vinegar dressing seeps into each slice, adding a tangy kick, while the sesame oil and soy sauce create a savory undercurrent that elevates the overall taste. Marinated cucumber salad can be served on its own as a light, refreshing dish, or it can accompany various meals to balance out heavier or richer flavors. It’s a versatile recipe that will undoubtedly find a place in your meal rotation.
The Health Benefits of Marinated Cucumber Salad
One of the main reasons to love marinated cucumber salad is the nutritional benefits it brings to the table. Cucumbers are not only low in calories, but they are also rich in water, which helps to keep you hydrated. The added bonus of fiber helps with digestion and contributes to feelings of fullness, making this salad a great choice if you’re looking for something light yet satisfying.
Rice vinegar, a key component of the marinade, offers its own health benefits. It contains acetic acid, which can aid in digestion and help balance blood sugar levels. Additionally, vinegar has antibacterial properties and has been linked to weight loss when consumed in moderation. When paired with the sesame oil and soy sauce, the salad not only offers a combination of savory and sweet flavors but also provides healthy fats from the sesame oil.
Fresh ginger, another essential ingredient in this salad, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger has long been used in traditional medicine for its ability to soothe the digestive system and reduce nausea. It’s also believed to have antioxidant properties, which contribute to overall health and wellness.
Variations and Customizations
While the classic marinated cucumber salad is a wonderful dish on its own, it is also incredibly versatile. Depending on your taste preferences or the ingredients you have on hand, you can easily adjust or add to the recipe. For example, some variations include adding sliced radishes for an extra layer of crunch or a handful of sesame seeds for a delightful bite. You could also toss in some diced bell peppers or thinly sliced carrots to give the salad more color and flavor complexity.
For those who prefer a spicier kick, you can easily adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your taste. If you enjoy a more zesty, citrus-like flavor, a splash of lime or lemon juice can be added to the dressing for an extra burst of freshness.
Another customization option involves using different types of vinegars, such as apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar. Each vinegar has its own distinct flavor profile, so feel free to experiment to find your preferred balance of acidity and sweetness. You can also switch up the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative, making this recipe accessible to even those with dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
Marinated cucumber salad is an incredibly flexible dish that pairs well with many meals. It makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian entrees. The refreshing nature of the salad complements heavier main dishes, such as roasted meats or spicy stir-fries, providing a balance of flavors that brightens up your entire plate.
If you’re hosting a summer barbecue, this salad is the perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken, pork, or tofu. The coolness of the cucumber and the tang of the marinade will help cut through the smoky, savory flavors of the grilled dishes. It’s also ideal to serve with a fresh, light fish dish like grilled salmon or tuna steaks, where the crunchiness of the cucumber will add contrast to the tender fish.
Marinated cucumber salad also pairs wonderfully with Asian-inspired dishes, such as stir-fries, sushi, or noodle bowls. The soy sauce and sesame oil in the dressing harmonize perfectly with the flavors of Asian cuisine, making this salad an ideal side to complement a variety of flavors.
This salad can even serve as a standalone dish for a light lunch or snack. Its vibrant, fresh taste makes it a satisfying option for those looking for something healthy but not too heavy. You can also add a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to further enhance its freshness and appeal.
Why You Should Try Marinated Cucumber Salad
The marinated cucumber salad is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and health benefits. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is as delicious as it is nutritious. Its versatility makes it suitable for various dietary preferences, and it can be adjusted to suit your personal taste.
Whether you’re in need of a refreshing side dish, a healthy snack, or something to serve at your next gathering, this salad will always impress. Its simplicity makes it easy to whip up, and the ability to make it ahead of time means you can have it ready when you need it.
Moreover, marinated cucumber salad’s vibrant colors and fresh flavors bring an exciting element to any meal, brightening both the plate and the palate. It’s a recipe that never goes out of style, and one that’s sure to be a go-to in your kitchen for years to come.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, marinated cucumber salad is an excellent dish to include in your culinary repertoire. It’s a simple yet flavorful option that can complement a variety of meals, and its health benefits make it a smart choice for anyone looking to eat light without compromising on taste. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a party, this salad can easily fit into your menu, providing both a burst of freshness and a satisfying crunch.
So next time you’re looking for a side dish that’s as delicious as it is healthy, look no further than marinated cucumber salad. It’s the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients, making it a must-try recipe for anyone who enjoys fresh, vibrant food.