Ingredients

• 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 carrot, grated
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 40 ml olive oil
• 20 grams sugar
• 20 ml soy sauce
• 15 grams paprika
• 20 grams sesame seeds
• 10 ml apple or rice vinegar

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

1. Slice the Cucumbers
   Thinly slice the cucumbers to achieve a delicate texture. You can use a knife, mandoline, or vegetable peeler for consistent slices.
2. Salt the Cucumbers
   Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of salt, and mix well. Let the salted cucumbers sit for 10–15 minutes. The salt will help draw out excess moisture, keeping the salad crisp.
3. Drain and Rinse
   After 15 minutes, gently squeeze the cucumbers to remove any remaining liquid, then rinse under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat them dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Combine the Vegetables

4. Add Carrots and Green Onions
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the salted cucumbers, grated carrot, and chopped green onions. These ingredients add color, texture, and a fresh flavor to the salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

5. Mix the Dressing Ingredients
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, sugar, soy sauce, paprika, sesame seeds, and vinegar. Mix until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is well-blended. Adjust the seasoning to taste if desired.
6. Toss the Salad
   Pour the dressing over the cucumber, carrot, and green onion mixture. Toss gently until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
7. Chill the Salad
   For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes. This chilling period allows the vegetables to absorb the flavors of the dressing.
8. Serve
   Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, garnish with additional sesame seeds or green onions if desired, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 100
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 3g
• Fat: 7g
• Sodium: 300mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a few hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated and toss again before serving. However, if you prefer extra crunch, add the dressing just before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar work well in this recipe, but you can also substitute with white vinegar or even lime juice for a slightly different tang.

3. What can I add to make the salad spicier?
For added heat, try adding thinly sliced red chili, a dash of red pepper flakes, or a small amount of Sriracha to the dressing.

4. Is there a way to make this salad sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter profile, increase the sugar to taste or add a small amount of honey.

5. Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, you can add other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded cabbage to add variety and texture.

Tips for Making the Best Asian-Inspired Cucumber Salad

1. Choose Fresh Cucumbers
   Opt for firm cucumbers, as they provide the best texture. English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work well due to their thin skin and mild flavor.
2. Slice Thinly for Maximum Flavor
   Thin slices help absorb the dressing better, giving each bite a burst of flavor.
3. Adjust the Salt Carefully
   Since soy sauce is salty, use caution when adding additional salt. Taste as you go to avoid over-salting.
4. Toast the Sesame Seeds
   Toasting sesame seeds before adding them to the salad brings out their nuttiness and enhances the salad’s flavor.
5. Customize the Dressing
   Feel free to experiment with the dressing ingredients. A touch of grated ginger or a dash of fish sauce can add depth and complexity to the flavors.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigerate Properly
   Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 days. Note that the cucumbers may release more liquid over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
2. Refreshing the Salad
   If the salad has been sitting for a day, you can revive it by draining any excess liquid and adding a little more dressing before serving.
3. Do Not Freeze
   Freezing this salad is not recommended as cucumbers and carrots lose their crunch and become watery once thawed.

Conclusion

This Asian-Inspired Cucumber and Carrot Salad is a refreshing, healthy, and versatile dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. The blend of cucumbers and carrots creates a satisfying crunch, while the sesame-soy dressing adds a rich, umami-packed taste with just the right hint of sweetness and acidity. It’s perfect as a side dish or light appetizer, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to stir-fried dishes. With minimal prep time and easily adjustable flavors, this salad can be adapted to suit your taste preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a flavorful side dish, this cucumber and carrot salad is sure to impress. Try it out, and enjoy the wonderful combination of textures and flavors in every bite.