Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad

Spicy Asian cucumber salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines crisp cucumbers with a tangy, spicy dressing. It's a popular side dish in many Asian cuisines and is easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 2 English cucumbers
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your desired level of spiciness)
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the cucumbers. Wash and dry them, then cut off the ends. You can peel them if desired, but leaving the skin on adds texture and color. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or julienne them for a more delicate presentation. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey or sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness, spiciness, or saltiness according to your preference.
3. Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers in the bowl. Toss gently to coat the cucumbers evenly with the dressing.
4. Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to absorb the dressing. You can leave it longer for more intense flavor, if desired.
5. Before serving, garnish the salad with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Give it a final toss to incorporate the garnishes.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding salt if needed.
7. Serve the spicy Asian cucumber salad chilled as a side dish or accompaniment to Asian-inspired meals. It pairs well with grilled meats, stir-fries, or as a refreshing component in a rice bowl.

The spicy Asian cucumber salad offers a balance of tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a perfect complement to a variety of dishes. Enjoy the refreshing crunch of the cucumbers with the zesty dressing!