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Viral Cucumber Salad

A refreshing, tangy, and spicy cucumber salad dressed with garlic, vinegar, and chili flakes, ready in under 10 minutes with no cooking required.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian Inspired
Calories: 45
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 4 large English cucumbers sliced into thin rounds
  • 4 cloves garlic minced very finely
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds optional
  • 1 green onion sliced thin (optional)

Equipment

  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork for mixing
  • Medium serving bowl
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for tossing

Method
 

  1. Wash your cucumbers under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Slice each cucumber into thin, even rounds about 1/8 inch thick using a sharp knife.
  3. Peel your garlic cloves and mince them very finely so they distribute evenly.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, chili flakes, and salt for about 30 seconds.
  5. Stir the minced garlic into your dressing and let it sit for 1 minute.
  6. Transfer the sliced cucumbers to a medium serving bowl and pour the dressing over them, then toss gently to coat.
  7. Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
  8. Taste a piece of cucumber and adjust seasoning with salt, vinegar, or chili flakes as needed.
  9. Top the salad with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, and sliced green onion just before serving.

Notes

Letting the salad marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor.