This Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, delicious, and fat-burning dish that’s perfect for those looking to lose weight while enjoying a nutritious meal. With hydrating cucumbers, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy, flavorful dressing, this salad is an excellent choice for a light dinner or a side dish that supports your weight-loss goals.
Preparation Time:
- Active Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
- Cucumbers (about 600-700g)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 carrot, grated
- Green onion, chopped
- 40ml olive oil
- 20 grams sugar
- 20ml soy sauce
- 15 grams paprika
- 20 grams sesame seeds
- 10ml apple or rice vinegar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Slice the cucumbers and place them in a bowl.
- Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of salt, mix well, and let them sit for 15 minutes to release excess water.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Grate the carrot and chop the green onion.
- Add them to the bowl with the cucumbers.
- Drain the Cucumbers:
- After the cucumbers have released their excess liquid, drain off the liquid to avoid a watery salad. You can also pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel for extra dryness.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, mix together 40ml olive oil, 20 grams sugar, 20ml soy sauce, 15 grams paprika, 20 grams sesame seeds, and 10ml apple or rice vinegar.
- Combine the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture.
- Toss everything together until well coated.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy this salad as a light dinner or pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
- It also works well as a side dish to complement a variety of main courses.
Cooking Tips:
- Letting the cucumbers sit with salt helps draw out excess water, preventing a soggy salad.
- Adjust the amount of paprika based on your spice preference. You can also use smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cucumbers: Low in calories and high in water content, cucumbers help keep you hydrated and full.
- Carrots: Provide vitamins and fiber, contributing to overall health and satiety.
- Sesame Seeds: Add a nutty flavor and are rich in healthy fats and protein.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free if needed.
- Low-Calorie: Ideal for a low-calorie, weight-loss-friendly meal.
Storage:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Best enjoyed within the first day for maximum freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- This salad is refreshing, easy to prepare, and perfect for weight loss.
- The combination of crunchy vegetables and tangy dressing makes it a satisfying dish.
- It’s versatile enough to enjoy on its own or as a side dish.
Conclusion: Enjoy this fat-burning Cucumber Salad as part of your evening routine. It’s light, nutritious, and flavorful, making it an excellent choice for a healthy dinner that helps you lose weight while you sleep. Give it a try and feel the benefits!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use a different type of vinegar?
- Yes, you can substitute apple or rice vinegar with white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a different tangy flavor.
- Is there a sugar-free option for this recipe?
- You can substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or skip it altogether if you prefer a less sweet salad.
- How do I keep the salad from becoming too watery?
- Make sure to drain the cucumbers well after salting them. You can also pat them dry with a paper towel before mixing in the other ingredients.
- Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
- Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or tomatoes can enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
- Is it necessary to refrigerate the salad before serving?
- Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together, but if you’re short on time, you can serve it immediately after mixing.
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Yes, this salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a good toss before serving.
- What can I pair with this salad for a more filling meal?
- This salad pairs well with lean proteins like grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. You can also serve it with a side of quinoa or brown rice.
- Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
- Yes, this salad is completely vegan as it contains no animal products.
- How long will the salad stay fresh?
- The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator, though it’s best enjoyed within the first day.
- Can I use pre-sliced cucumbers from the store?
- Yes, pre-sliced cucumbers can save time, but make sure they are fresh and not overly watery for the best texture.