Cucumber Salad with Sesame Vinaigrette and Rice Vinegar
### Cucumber Salad with Sesame and Rice Vinegar
Cucumbers are a common ingredient in numerous kitchens, appreciated for their crisp texture, moisture content, and adaptability. Although they often appear in various meals and snacks, they have been somewhat overlooked in recipe collections. This article introduces an easy yet tasty cucumber salad inspired by the Japanese recipe known as **sunomono**, meaning “vinegared things.” This salad offers a refreshing taste and complements a range of dishes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.
#### Ingredients
– 1 pound (455 grams) Persian-style cucumbers, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
– 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (preferably Diamond brand)
– 3 tablespoons (45 ml) unseasoned rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon (15 ml) toasted sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce
– Ground black or white pepper, to taste
– Chili oil or chili crisp, to taste, or red pepper flakes
– Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Cucumbers**: In a bowl, mix the sliced cucumbers with kosher salt. Allow them to rest for at least 10 to 15 minutes, or for up to an hour or two. This step helps remove excess moisture, enabling the cucumbers to soak up the dressing more effectively.
2. **Mix the Dressing**: Once the cucumbers have released some liquid, discard any surplus. Incorporate the rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and ground pepper into the cucumbers. Mix thoroughly to combine. Taste and modify the seasoning with additional salt if needed.
3. **Finish and Serve**: Drizzle with chili oil or add red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
4. **Storage**: Any leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days, where they will continue to develop taste as they lightly pickle.
This cucumber salad is a flexible side that pairs well with stir-fries, noodle dishes, and dumplings, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Enjoy the refreshing crunch and the delightful mix of flavors that this simple salad brings to your table.
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