### Cucumber Crunch Salad with Tofu: A Revitalizing Meal for a Heat Wave
With rising temperatures, the idea of cooking can seem daunting. The urge to refrain from using the stove or even the microwave prompts many to look for invigorating, no-cook dishes. One such delight that excels during the summer heat is the Cucumber Crunch Salad with Tofu. This salad brings together fresh cucumbers, creamy tofu, and a tasty peanut sesame dressing, making it an ideal selection for warm days.
#### The Origin of the Salad
This salad is inspired by the cherished Peanut Sesame Noodles, a dish that has been a favorite for many years. The dressing, which is the essence of this salad, is a straightforward yet delectable mix of ingredients that can enhance any raw vegetable. While cucumbers take center stage here, feel free to try other veggies like grated carrots or shredded cabbage.
#### Essential Ingredients
**Dressing:**
– 4 tablespoons smooth peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar
– 1 ½ teaspoons honey or brown sugar
– ½-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and minced or finely grated
– 1 small garlic clove, minced or finely grated
– 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
– Hot sauce, chili paste, or chili crisp to taste
– Water, if necessary
**Salad Construction:**
– 1 package (14 to 16 ounces) Persian cucumbers (5 to 6)
– 1 scallion
– 3 tablespoons salted roasted peanuts, chopped finely
– 1 package firm or extra-firm silken tofu (10 to 12 ounces)
– Toasted black and white sesame seeds (optional)
#### Steps for Preparation
1. **Prepare the Dressing:**
In a large bowl, whisk all dressing ingredients together. Taste and modify the seasoning as required. Set aside a portion of the dressing to pour over the assembled salad later.
2. **Get the Vegetables and Tofu Ready:**
– Slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise, then cut each half into long wedges, followed by 1 ½-inch pieces.
– Chop the scallion and peanuts finely.
– Take the tofu out of its package, pat it dry, and slice it into batons.
3. **Construct the Salad:**
– On a serving dish, place half of the tofu and drizzle with half of the reserved dressing.
– Mix the cucumbers with the dressing and pile half on top of the tofu.
– Repeat the process with the remaining tofu, dressing, and cucumbers.
– Sprinkle with the scallion-peanut mixture and, if desired, drizzle with chili crisp or hot sauce and add a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
#### Suggestions for Serving
This salad tastes best when enjoyed right away to keep the cucumbers crisp. If allowed to sit too long, the salt in the dressing can draw moisture from the cucumbers, causing them to become soggy. For optimal results, serve it fresh and think about preparing only what you can consume in one sitting.
#### Final Thoughts
The Cucumber Crunch Salad with Tofu is not just a delightful way to stay cool but also a flexible dish that can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you are a cucumber fan or simply in search of a light meal, this salad is destined to be a favorite recipe during those hot summer days. Relish the refreshing flavors and the simplicity of preparation, and you may find yourself making it throughout the summer.